Men's or boys' swimwear - Of synthetic fibres

CN code 611231 covers men's or boys' swimwear of knitted fabrics made from synthetic fibres. Heading 6112 covers track suits, ski suits and swimwear of knitted fabrics. Men's swimwear of synthetic fibres primarily includes swimming trunks, swim shorts and swim briefs made of knitted polyester, polyamide or their blends with elastane. Classification requires the dominant fibre by weight to be synthetic. Most men's swimwear on the market is made of synthetic fibres due to their water resistance, quick-drying properties and chlorine resistance. The article must be knitted - woven swim shorts are classified under different codes. Elastane as an auxiliary fibre does not change the classification provided its share is less than that of the synthetic fibre.

Men's swimwear of synthetic fibres imported into the EU is subject to Regulation (EU) No 1007/2011 on fibre composition labelling. Swimwear in contact with chlorinated water and skin is subject to REACH controls on azo dyes, formaldehyde and nonylphenol. Pool fabrics may contain UV protection agents whose safety should be confirmed. The GPSR Regulation requires product traceability and a responsible person within the EU. Children's swimwear is subject to stricter safety requirements including resistance of decorative elements to detachment. Waist drawstrings are subject to EN 14682 requirements for children's products.

Import of men's synthetic swimwear under CN code 611231 is seasonal with the main import period in winter and spring months. Major exporters include China, Bangladesh, Vietnam and Turkey. Preferential duty rates are available under EU trade agreements and the GSP system. Imports from China are subject to standard erga omnes duty rates. Rules of origin require double transformation. The customs declaration must describe the goods as men's knitted synthetic swimwear with fibre composition and CIF customs value. Branded swimwear is subject to intellectual property checks at the border.

Sportswear under CN 6112 31 requires precise classification within heading 6112 or 6114. Track suits (6112) are complete sets intended exclusively for physical activity. Sportswear not classified as track suits falls under heading 6114. The key criterion is intended use - athleisure garments worn casually may be classified under general headings (6103/6104) rather than sportswear headings, significantly affecting applicable duty rates.