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25
Tariff Chapter 25
Salt (including table salt and denatured salt) and pure sodium chloride, whether or not in aqueous solution or containing added anti-caking or free-flowing agents; sea water
What does heading 2501 of the customs tariff cover?
Heading 2501 covers salt (table salt, denatured salt), pure sodium chloride, sea water. Mineral products in this group are basic industrial raw materials or food products used in many economic sectors. Import of these products into the EU is subject to duty rates from 0% to 2.2%. Table salt must meet EU food safety standards. Industrial products require standard customs documentation. Iodised table salt is subject to separate requirements in some EU countries. Heading 2501 is part of Chapter 25 (mineral products, ores and fuels) of the Combined Nomenclature (CN) used in the European Union. This classification is based on the Harmonized System (HS) developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO), which is used in over 200 countries worldwide. The EU Combined Nomenclature extends the HS with additional 8-digit subheadings, while the TARIC system adds 10-digit codes for identifying specific trade measures. Each 4-digit heading such as 2501 is subdivided into 6-digit (HS), 8-digit (CN) and 10-digit (TARIC) subheadings that specify the type of goods for the purpose of applying the correct duty rates, trade measures and regulatory requirements. Correct determination of the 10-digit code is essential for establishing the amount of customs duties and taxes, as well as required permits and certificates. Classification of goods under heading 2501 must follow the General Rules for the Interpretation (GRI) of the Combined Nomenclature. Rule 1 states that classification is determined primarily by the terms of the headings and the relevant section or chapter notes. The Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System and the Combined Nomenclature clarify the scope of each heading and are essential references for importers and customs brokers.
Duty rates and import requirements for heading 2501
Import of these products into the EU is subject to duty rates from 0% to 2.2%. Industrial products require standard customs documentation. Iodised table salt is subject to separate requirements in some EU countries. Table salt must meet EU purity and food safety standards. Check whether the product is intended for food or industrial use - different requirements apply. Denatured salt is subject to separate customs and excise regulations. Iron pyrites are mainly used in the chemical industry for sulphuric acid production. When importing goods under heading 2501 into the European Union, attention must be paid to applicable duty rates, which depend on the specific subheading (8- or 10-digit code) and the country of origin. MFN (Most Favoured Nation) duty rates apply to imports from countries with which the EU does not have preferential trade agreements. Current rates can be checked in the EU TARIC database on the European Commission website. Import of goods under heading 2501 may benefit from preferential duty rates under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) concluded by the EU with third countries, the Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP) for developing countries, or autonomous tariff suspensions. Claiming preferences requires presentation of appropriate proof of origin (EUR.1 certificate, origin declaration, REX certificate or statement on origin under the registered exporter system). Goods under heading 2501 are subject to quality and environmental compliance controls. Required documentation includes: chemical composition analysis certificates, REACH documentation, fuel trading permits. In addition to customs duty, imports are subject to VAT at the rate applicable in the country of destination. The VAT taxable amount at import is the customs value plus duty and any countervailing or anti-dumping duties. The importer must file an electronic customs declaration in the national import system.
Classification of goods under heading 2501 — key considerations
Heading 2501 covers salt, sodium chloride, sea water. Key classification factors are the degree of processing, composition and intended use of the product. CN subheadings divide goods in detail. Common mistake: sól przemysłowa — tutaj. The boundary with neighbouring headings (2502-2530) depends on the preservation or processing method. Section and chapter notes must be considered as they define the precise scope of each heading.
Frequently asked questions
What duty rates apply to salt and sodium chloride (heading 2501)?
EU duty rates for salt and sodium chloride under heading 2501 are low. Rock salt and sea salt for consumption, as well as denatured salt, carry a 0% rate, while other salt types are subject to rates of EUR 1.7 or EUR 2.6 per tonne depending on the CN subheading. This heading covers table salt, industrial salt, sea water and pure sodium chloride. Classification depends on intended use and degree of processing. Current duty rates should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database. Classification follows the Combined Nomenclature (CN) of the European Union.
What documentation and regulations govern the import of salt into the EU?
Importing food-grade salt requires compliance with EU food safety standards, including limits for heavy metal contaminants and other substances. Iodised salt is subject to specific requirements in certain EU Member States. Industrial salt requires standard customs documentation: commercial invoice, transport document, customs declaration and certificate of origin. Food salt labelling must conform to EU Regulation No 1169/2011. Salt intended for food contact in processing operations requires documentation confirming product purity. This applies to goods classified under heading 2501 of the Combined Nomenclature. Current duty rates should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database. Classification follows the Combined Nomenclature (CN) of the European Union.
What practical considerations apply when importing table salt and industrial salt?
Correct distinction between food-grade and industrial salt is essential as they are subject to different regulatory requirements. Salt is a low unit-value commodity, so transport costs represent a significant portion of the final price — sea or rail transport in bulk is preferred. Salt is hygroscopic and absorbs moisture, requiring appropriate packaging and transport conditions. Iodised salt has specific labelling requirements. Quality controls may include chemical purity and granulometry testing. Bulk salt shipments should be protected against contamination during handling and storage. This applies to goods classified under heading 2501 of the Combined Nomenclature. Current duty rates should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database. Classification follows the Combined Nomenclature (CN) of the European Union.
Useful tools & resources
Customs calculators
Duty & VAT CalculatorCalculate customs duty and VAT for "Salt (including table salt and denatured salt) and pure sodium chloride, whether or not in aqueous solution or containing added anti-caking or free-flowing agents; sea water" and see the full import cost.Import Profitability CalculatorCheck the import profitability of "Salt (including table salt and denatured salt) and pure sodium chloride, whether or not in aqueous solution or containing added anti-caking or free-flowing agents; sea water" with all costs included.
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