61124100
ARTICLES OF APPAREL AND CLOTHING ACCESSORIES, KNITTED OR CROCHETED›Tracksuits, ski suits and swimwear, knitted or crocheted
Women's or girls' swimwear - Of synthetic fibres
Subcodes (2)
Tariff classification and scope of CN code 611241
CN code 611241 covers women's or girls' swimwear of knitted fabrics made from synthetic fibres. Women's swimwear includes one-piece swimsuits, bikinis (two-piece), tankinis and other articles intended for bathing and swimming. Heading 6112 covers track suits, ski suits and swimwear of knitted fabrics. Classification requires the synthetic fibre (polyester, polyamide, elastane) to constitute the dominant share by weight. Most women's swimwear on the European market is made of polyamide-elastane blends due to optimal performance properties - stretch, chlorine resistance and UV protection. The article must be knitted.
Safety requirements and labelling
Women's swimwear of synthetic fibres imported into the EU is subject to Regulation (EU) No 1007/2011 on fibre composition labelling. Swimwear is subject to REACH controls on restricted substances including azo dyes, formaldehyde, nonylphenol and phthalates. Metal elements such as clasps and hooks must comply with nickel restrictions. Linings and inserts may contain additional materials whose composition must be included on the label. The GPSR Regulation requires product traceability and a responsible person within the EU. UV-protective swimwear may require confirmation of declared properties in accordance with EN 13758-2.
Import and trade in women's swimwear
Import of women's synthetic swimwear under CN code 611241 is seasonal. Major exporters include China, Bangladesh, Vietnam, Turkey and Italy. The premium segment includes products from Italian and French designers. Preferential duty rates are available under EU trade agreements and the GSP system. Rules of origin require double transformation. The customs declaration must include a precise product description, fibre composition and customs value. Branded swimwear is subject to intellectual property checks. Importers should plan imports in advance due to product seasonality.
Classifying sportswear in the Combined Nomenclature CN 6112 41
Sportswear under CN 6112 41 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.
Frequently asked questions
Is a polyamide-elastane bikini classified under code 611241?
Yes, a bikini (two-piece swimsuit) of knitted fabric composed of for example 80% polyamide and 20% elastane is classified under CN code 611241. Polyamide is a synthetic fibre constituting the dominant share by weight. A bikini presented as a set (top + bottom) is classified under a single code.
Does UV-protective swimwear require certification?
If the manufacturer declares UV protection on the label or in marketing materials, test results should be available confirming the declared protection level in accordance with EN 13758-2. Market surveillance authorities may verify the accuracy of such claims. Lack of confirmation may result in product withdrawal.
What REACH restrictions apply to women's swimwear?
Women's swimwear is subject to standard REACH restrictions for textile articles in skin contact including azo dyes (30 mg/kg), formaldehyde, nonylphenol, phthalates in plastic elements and nickel in metal elements. Dye fastness to chlorinated water is relevant from a safety perspective.
How to classify sportswear vs track suits under CN 6112 41?
Track suits (6112) are complete sets for physical activity. Other sportswear CN 6112 41 falls under heading 6114. Athleisure garments worn casually may be classified under general headings 6103/6104.
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