Not sure about the classification?
35
Tariff Chapter 35
Albumins (including concentrates of two or more whey proteins, containing by weight more than 80 % whey proteins, calculated on the dry matter), albuminates and other albumin derivatives
What does heading 3502 of the customs tariff cover?
Heading 3502 covers albumins, albuminates and other albumin derivatives. These products belong to Chapter 35 covering albuminoidal substances, modified starches and glues. They are used in the food, pharmaceutical, photographic, paper, textile and adhesive industries. Import of products of heading 3502 into the EU is subject to duty rates from 0% to 9%. Products intended for food use must comply with Regulation (EC) No 853/2004 and may be subject to veterinary controls. Products of animal origin may require a veterinary health certificate and inspection at a BCP. Heading 3502 is part of Chapter 35 (chemical industry products, pharmaceuticals and fertilizers) 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 3502 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 3502 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 3502
Heading 3502 covers albumins, albuminates and other albumin derivatives. Import of products of heading 3502 into the EU is subject to duty rates from 0% to 9%. Products intended for food use must comply with Regulation (EC) No 853/2004 and may be subject to veterinary controls. Products of animal origin may require a veterinary health certificate and inspection at a BCP. Animal-origin products of heading 3502 may require a veterinary certificate and BCP inspection. Duty rates range from 0% to 9% depending on the subheading and application. Food-grade gelatin and casein must comply with Regulation (EC) No 853/2004. Check whether the exporting country is approved for export of animal-origin products to the EU. When importing goods under heading 3502 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 3502 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).
Classification of goods under heading 3502 - key considerations
Heading 3502 covers albumins (incl. whey protein concentrates), albuminates and other albumin derivatives. Egg albumin: 3502 11. Milk albumin (lactalbumin): 3502 20. Blood albumin: 3502 90. Whey proteins (WPC, WPI): 3502. Blood serum for medical use: 3002, not 3502. Key distinction: 3502 = TECHNICAL albumins, 3002 = medicinal blood/sera.
Frequently asked questions
What duty rates apply to albumins, albuminates and other albumin derivatives under heading 3502?
Customs duty rates for albumins, albuminates and other albumin derivatives under heading 3502 depend on the specific tariff subheading (8- or 10-digit code) and the country of origin. MFN rates apply to imports from countries without preferential trade agreements. Preferential rates may be available under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), the GSP scheme, or autonomous tariff suspensions. Current rates for heading 3502 should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database. Standard VAT rate in Poland is 23%.
What documents are required when importing albumins, albuminates and other albumin derivatives into the EU?
Importing albumins, albuminates and other albumin derivatives under heading 3502 into the EU requires a customs declaration with the correct CN classification and the importer's EORI number. Standard documentation includes a commercial invoice, transport document and product specification. A certificate of origin is needed for preferential rates. Additional regulatory requirements depend on the product type and may include safety, conformity or quality control certificates. Imports are governed by the Union Customs Code (UCC).
What should be considered when classifying albumins, albuminates and other albumin derivatives under heading 3502?
Classification of goods under heading 3502 requires applying the General Rules for the Interpretation of the Combined Nomenclature (CN). Key factors include the product's composition, intended use and level of processing. Heading 3502 covers albumins, albuminates and other albumin derivatives - exact classification to the 6-, 8- or 10-digit subheading depends on the specific characteristics of the goods. In case of doubt, it is recommended to apply for Binding Tariff Information (BTI) from the competent customs authority. The EBTI database on the European Commission website can help with classifying similar goods. Current duty rates should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database.
Useful tools & resources
Customs calculators
Duty & VAT CalculatorCalculate customs duty and VAT for "Albumins (including concentrates of two or more whey proteins, containing by weight more than 80 % whey proteins, calculated on the dry matter), albuminates and other albumin derivatives" and see the full import cost.Import Profitability CalculatorCheck the import profitability of "Albumins (including concentrates of two or more whey proteins, containing by weight more than 80 % whey proteins, calculated on the dry matter), albuminates and other albumin derivatives" with all costs included.
Related glossary terms