32041100
TANNING OR DYEING EXTRACTS; TANNINS AND THEIR DERIVATIVES; DYES, PIGMENTS AND OTHER COLOURING MATTER; PAINTS AND VARNISHES; PUTTY AND OTHER MASTICS; INKS›Synthetic organic colouring matter, whether or not chemically defined; preparations as specified in note 3 to this chapter based on synthetic organic colouring matter; synthetic organic products of a kind used as fluorescent brightening agents or as luminophores, whether or not chemically defined
Synthetic organic colouring matter and preparations based thereon as specified in note 3 to this chapter - Disperse dyes and preparations based thereon
Tariff classification and applications of disperse dyes
CN code 320411 covers disperse dyes and preparations based thereon, used primarily for dyeing synthetic fibres such as polyester, nylon, and cellulose acetate. These dyes are characterised by low water solubility and are applied as finely dispersed suspensions. Classification under this code requires confirmation that the product is a disperse dye within the meaning of Note 3 to Chapter 32 of the Combined Nomenclature. Disperse dyes are a key raw material for the textile industry, and their quality and purity directly affect dyeing fastness and functional properties of fabrics. Import of these products into the EU requires technical documentation confirming chemical composition and intended use.
REACH, CLP requirements and chemical safety
Disperse dyes imported into the EU are subject to the REACH Regulation (EC No 1907/2006). The importer must ensure each substance in the preparation is registered with ECHA. Particular attention must be paid to azo dyes that may release arylamines listed in Annex XVII of REACH (entry 43), as such dyes are prohibited in textile articles in contact with skin. CLP labelling is mandatory and must account for classification of all hazardous components. The Safety Data Sheet (SDS) must be provided in the official language of the destination country. Some disperse dyes are classified as skin sensitisers, requiring GHS07 pictogram labelling.
Practical import and export aspects
For customs clearance of disperse dyes under CN code 320411, the chemical specification, Colour Index number, CAS number, and active substance concentration should be presented. Verification under the Dual-Use Export Control Regulation (EU) 2021/821 is advisable, although disperse dyes are generally not on control lists. Importers may benefit from EU tariff preferences under trade agreements. Quality control of imported dyes is important given the EU textile industry requirements on restricted substances, including arylamines, heavy metals, and formaldehyde.
VOC standards and emission limits
When importing Disperse dyes and preparations (CN 3204 11) into the EU, VOC content regulations under Directive 2004/42/EC must be considered. Decorative paints and automotive refinish products have established VOC limits. CLP classification requires appropriate GHS pictogram labelling on packaging. Pigments containing heavy metals (lead, cadmium, chromium VI) are subject to strict REACH restrictions (Annex XVII). Importers must have SDS sheets and ensure labelling complies with destination country regulations. Conformity testing may include spectrometric analysis for composition verification.
Frequently asked questions
Can azo disperse dyes be imported into the EU?
Azo dyes can be imported, but those releasing prohibited arylamines listed in entry 43 of Annex XVII of REACH cannot be used in textile and leather articles in direct contact with skin. The importer must hold test results confirming the absence of prohibited amine release.
What CLP labelling is required for disperse dyes?
CLP labelling depends on the classification of the specific dye. Many disperse dyes are classified as skin sensitisers (H317) and require the GHS07 pictogram and signal word. Full classification should be determined based on toxicological data and reflected in the Safety Data Sheet.
What is the Colour Index and is it required for import?
The Colour Index is an international dye and pigment classification system maintained by the Society of Dyers and Colourists. The CI number is not formally required by customs authorities but is a textile industry standard that facilitates product identification and is recommended in trade documentation.
What VOC limits apply to paints and coatings CN 3204 11?
Paints and coatings under CN code 3204 11 are subject to VOC limits per Directive 2004/42/EC. Matt decorative paints: max 30 g/l, gloss decorative paints: max 100-150 g/l, industrial coatings: limits vary by application.
Useful tools & resources
Customs calculators
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Related glossary terms