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72
Tariff Chapter 72
Ferro-alloys
What does heading 7202 of the customs tariff cover?
Heading 7202 covers ferro-alloys, which are alloys of iron with one or more elements such as manganese (ferro-manganese), silicon (ferro-silicon), chromium (ferro-chromium), nickel, molybdenum, tungsten, titanium or vanadium. Ferro-alloys are key materials added during steel production to impart desired mechanical and chemical properties. EU duty rates for ferro-alloys range from 2.7% to 5.5% depending on the alloy type and content of individual elements. Imports are subject to CBAM and chemical composition declaration requirements. Certain ferro-alloys (e.g. ferro-chromium from China) may be subject to anti-dumping duties. Heading 7202 is part of Chapter 72 (base metals and metal products) 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 7202 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 7202 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 7202
EU duty rates for ferro-alloys range from 2.7% to 5.5% depending on the alloy type and content of individual elements. Imports are subject to CBAM and chemical composition declaration requirements. A certificate of origin is required for tariff preferences. Duty rates range from 2.7% to 5.5% depending on ferro-alloy type - accurate CN classification is essential. Check whether the specific ferro-alloy is subject to anti-dumping duties (applies to ferro-silicon from China and Russia, among others). Import subject to CBAM - CO2 emission reporting from the production process required. Chemical composition declaration and certificate of origin required for tariff preferences. When importing goods under heading 7202 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 7202 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 7202 - key considerations
Heading 7202 covers ferro-alloys, which are alloys of iron with one or more elements such. Ferro-alloys are key materials added during steel production to impart desired mechanical and chemical properties. Distinction from 7201 (pig iron and spiegeleisen in pigs, block) and 7203 (ferrous products obtained by direct redu) requires analysis of material, form and intended use. Decisive factor: precise determination of base material, processing stage and end-use of the product.
Frequently asked questions
What are the EU customs duty rates for ferro-alloys under heading 7202?
EU duty rates for ferro-alloys under heading 7202 range from 2.7% to 7% depending on the alloy type and elemental content. Ferro-manganese (2.7%) and ferro-silicon (5.7%) have moderate rates, ferro-silico-manganese (3.7%) is lower, while ferro-chromium (7202 49) faces the highest rate at 7%. Precise classification requires accurate determination of the percentage content of alloying elements (manganese, silicon, chromium, nickel, vanadium, niobium), as this determines subheading assignment and the applicable duty rate. Current duty rates should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database. Classification follows the Combined Nomenclature (CN) of the European Union.
What documents and regulations govern the import of ferro-alloys into the EU?
Ferro-alloy imports require a customs declaration with CN code, commercial invoice, certificate of origin, and a chemical analysis certificate confirming exact alloy composition. Ferro-alloys are subject to CBAM, requiring CO2 emission declaration and purchase of CBAM certificates. REACH compliance is mandatory, particularly for alloys containing chromium, nickel, or vanadium. Anti-dumping duties may apply to ferro-silicon from certain countries. Safety data sheets may be required for alloys classified as hazardous substances. This applies to goods classified under heading 7202 of the Combined Nomenclature.
What practical import considerations apply to ferro-alloys - quality control, transport, and quotas?
Ferro-alloys are shipped in lumps, granules, or powder form, requiring packaging that protects against moisture and contamination. Powdered ferro-alloys may require hazardous materials classification due to metal dust risks. Customs inspection includes chemical composition verification with laboratory analysis of samples. Anti-dumping duties may apply to ferro-silicon from China and Russia. Tariff quotas may exist for selected ferro-alloys. CBAM requirements mandate detailed CO2 emission documentation from the producer, adding complexity to the import process. This applies to goods classified under heading 7202 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
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Duty & VAT CalculatorCalculate customs duty and VAT for "Ferro-alloys" and see the full import cost.CBAM CalculatorCalculate the CBAM (Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism) fee for CO2 emissions linked to your import.Import Profitability CalculatorCheck the import profitability of "Ferro-alloys" with all costs included.
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