Nickel-metal hydride

CN code 850750 covers nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) rechargeable batteries, which are secondary cells using a hydrogen-absorbing alloy anode and a nickel hydroxide cathode in an alkaline electrolyte. NiMH batteries provide a nominal voltage of 1.2 V per cell and an energy density of 60-120 Wh/kg, positioning them between older NiCd technology and newer lithium-ion cells. Primary applications include power tools, medical equipment, emergency lighting, hybrid vehicle battery packs, and consumer AA/AAA rechargeable cells. CN code 850750 covers both individual cylindrical and prismatic cells and assembled battery packs with battery management systems (BMS), provided that the dominant function is electrical energy storage. NiMH batteries are distinguished from NiCd cells (CN 850740) by the anode composition. In 2026, NiMH batteries are subject to EU Regulation 2023/1542 (Battery Regulation), which replaced the former Battery Directive 2006/66/EC. The Regulation imposes labelling requirements, carbon footprint declarations, and minimum recycled content levels. Classification is based on GIR Rules 1 and 6. Importers should verify the 10-digit TARIC code before customs clearance, as subcodes may vary depending on capacity and intended application.

Importing NiMH batteries under CN code 850750 into the European Union is subject to Regulation (EU) 2023/1542 (Battery Regulation) since February 2024. The Regulation introduces mandatory QR code labelling, carbon footprint declarations for industrial batteries above 2 kWh capacity, and a Battery Passport requirement from 2027. Producers and importers must ensure minimum recycled content in new batteries from 2031. NiMH batteries are also subject to the RoHS 2 Directive (2011/65/EU) when intended for electrical and electronic equipment within its scope. The WEEE 2 Directive (2012/19/EU) imposes collection and recycling obligations for waste batteries as part of waste electrical equipment. Importers require an EORI number and must submit an electronic customs declaration with the correct CN code. Required documentation includes a commercial invoice with technical specifications (capacity, voltage, chemical composition), transport documents, and Battery Regulation compliance certificates. Transport of NiMH batteries is regulated under ADR/IMDG/IATA dangerous goods provisions as Class 9 hazardous materials. The EMC Directive (2014/30/EU) applies to battery packs with electronic management circuitry. CBAM does not apply to batteries or accumulators from Chapter 85.

Current MFN customs duty rates for CN code 850750 should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database before each customs clearance. Preferential duty rates are available under EU free trade agreements including CETA with Canada, EPA with Japan, EVFTA with Vietnam, EU-Korea FTA, and TCA with the United Kingdom, subject to compliance with rules of origin and presentation of valid proof of origin (EUR.1 certificate, invoice declaration, or REX registration). Importers should check TARIC for any anti-dumping or countervailing duties applicable to NiMH batteries from specific countries of origin. NiMH accumulators are not subject to the CBAM mechanism, which covers only products from the steel, aluminium, cement, fertiliser, hydrogen, and electricity sectors. Tariff classification of NiMH batteries is based on GIR Rules 1 and 6. The determining criterion is the chemical composition of the cell - a hydrogen-absorbing metal alloy anode distinguishes NiMH from other accumulator types. Battery packs with management electronics are still classified under 850750 provided energy storage remains the dominant function. For classification uncertainties, Binding Tariff Information (BTI) application is recommended. National VAT applies upon import.

Accumulators under CN 8507 50 are subject to the EU Battery Regulation (EU) 2023/1542. From 2025, a carbon footprint declaration is required for EV and industrial batteries. From 2027, minimum recycled content applies. Li-ion accumulators require ADR/IMDG transport compliance (UN 3481). MFN duty: 2.7%. Producer registration and REACH compliance are mandatory.