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72

Tariff Chapter 72

Angles, shapes and sections of iron or non-alloy steel

What does heading 7216 of the customs tariff cover?

Heading 7216 covers angles, shapes and sections of iron or non-alloy steel, including I-beams (IPE, HEB), channels, equal and unequal leg angles, T-sections and special profiles. These are fundamental structural elements used in construction, infrastructure, shipbuilding and mechanical engineering. EU duty rates are 0% for most subheadings. Imports are subject to safeguard measures with tariff-rate quotas, CBAM and potential anti-dumping duties. Steel profiles used in construction require CE marking per EN 10025 and a Declaration of Performance (DoP). An import licence is required. Heading 7216 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 7216 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 7216 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 7216

EU duty rates are 0% for most subheadings. Imports are subject to safeguard measures with tariff-rate quotas, CBAM and potential anti-dumping duties. Steel profiles used in construction require CE marking per EN 10025 and a Declaration of Performance (DoP). An import licence is required. Duty rate 0%, but safeguard measures with additional 25% duty once quota is exceeded. Construction profiles require CE marking (EN 10025) and Declaration of Performance (DoP). Import licence and CBAM registration required. Accurate classification by profile type (I-beam, channel, angle) and production method affects tariff treatment. When importing goods under heading 7216 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 7216 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). Goods under heading 7216 are subject to quality and EN standard compliance controls. Required documentation includes: chemical composition analysis certificates, CE certificates (construction products), EU steel safeguard documentation. In addition to customs duty, imports are subject to VAT at the rate applicable in the country of destination. The VAT taxable amount at import is the customs value plus duty and any countervailing or anti-dumping duties.

Classification of goods under heading 7216 - key considerations

Heading 7216 covers angles, shapes and sections of iron or non-alloy steel, including I-be. These are fundamental structural elements used in construction, infrastructure, shipbuilding and mechanical engineering. Distinction from 7215 (other bars and rods of iron or non-alloy) and 7217 (wire of iron or non-alloy steel, obtaine) 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 duty rates for steel sections and profiles under heading 7216?
EU customs duty rates for angles, shapes and sections of iron or non-alloy steel under heading 7216 are 0% for most CN subheadings. Safeguard measures apply with tariff-rate quotas - exceeding them triggers an additional 25% duty. Anti-dumping duties may also apply to steel profiles from specific countries. Classification depends on the profile type (I-beam, channel, angle), height, and manufacturing method such as hot-rolling or cold-forming. 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 standards are required for importing steel profiles (heading 7216)?
Importing steel profiles under heading 7216 requires a steel import licence, CBAM registration, and material quality certificate per EN 10204. Profiles used in construction must carry CE marking under EN 10025 and a Declaration of Performance per the Construction Products Regulation. A certificate of origin is needed for preferential rates. Documentation must confirm the steel grade and dimensional tolerances per applicable European standards. Current duty rates should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database. Classification follows the Combined Nomenclature (CN) of the European Union.
What practical aspects should importers of steel sections consider?
When importing steel sections under heading 7216, monitor safeguard tariff-rate quotas and verify potential anti-dumping duties. Structural profiles such as IPE, HEB, and HEA must meet European standard requirements and carry CE marking for construction use. From 2026, the full CBAM system requires CO2 emission declarations and certificate purchases. Coordinate with buyers on required steel grades and dimensional tolerances. Transport planning is essential due to profile length and weight. Current duty rates should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database. Classification follows the Combined Nomenclature (CN) of the European Union.