85367000
ELECTRICAL MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT AND PARTS THEREOF; SOUND RECORDERS AND REPRODUCERS, TELEVISION IMAGE AND SOUND RECORDERS AND REPRODUCERS, AND PARTS AND ACCESSORIES OF SUCH ARTICLES›Electrical apparatus for switching or protecting electrical circuits, or for making connections to or in electrical circuits (for example, switches, relays, fuses, surge suppressors, plugs, sockets, lamp holders and other connectors, junction boxes), for a voltage not exceeding 1 000 V; connectors for optical fibres, optical fibre bundles or cables
Connectors for optical fibres, optical fibre bundles or cables
Subcodes (1)
Definition and scope of subheading 8536 70 - optical fibre connectors
Subheading 8536 70 of the Combined Nomenclature covers connectors for optical fibres, fibre bundles or cables. This includes optical fibre connectors such as SC, LC, FC, ST, MTP/MPO, E2000 and adapters (couplers) joining two connectors. Optical fibre connectors enable detachable connection of optical fibres with minimal signal loss and ensure precise core alignment. The key classification criterion is the intended use for connecting optical fibres - electrical connectors are classified under 8536 69. Optical fibre connectors are widely used in telecommunications networks, data centres, FTTH (Fibre To The Home) networks and industrial optical networks. Classification follows GRI Rules 1 and 6 and the Notes to Chapter 85.
Regulatory requirements and ITA for optical fibre connectors under subheading 8536 70
Optical fibre connectors under 8536 70, as telecommunications components, are subject to the RoHS 2 Directive (2011/65/EU). The EMC Directive (2014/30/EU) may apply in the context of systems where connectors are installed. Under the ITA, optical fibre connectors as telecommunications and IT infrastructure components qualify for a zero MFN duty rate when imported from ITA signatory countries. CBAM does not apply. Import requires an EORI number and customs declaration with the correct CN code. Documentation includes a commercial invoice, technical specification (connector type, fibre type, insertion loss class) and RoHS declaration. IEC 61754 series standards specify interface requirements for specific connector types.
Duty rates and trade in optical fibre connectors
Current MFN rates should be verified in TARIC. Under the ITA, fibre connectors benefit from a 0% rate from signatory countries. Preferential rates may be available under FTAs. The fibre connector market is growing rapidly with 5G, FTTH and data centre expansion. Importers should check TARIC for trade measures. Imports from Russia and Belarus may be restricted. VAT is charged on import. The 10-digit TARIC code should be verified before clearance.
Optical fibre connectors - technology and import
Importing optical fibre connectors (CN 8536 70) into the European Union requires compliance with the Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU and EMC 2014/30/EU and CE marking. An EORI number and correct customs declaration are mandatory. MFN duty rates should be verified in TARIC, as ITA preferences or EU FTA rates (e.g. CETA, EPA, EU-Korea) may apply. Import from Russia and Belarus is subject to EU sanctions. National import VAT applies at the destination Member State rate.
Frequently asked questions
Do optical fibre connectors benefit from the ITA 0% rate?
Yes. Under the ITA, optical fibre connectors classified under 8536 70 qualify for a zero MFN duty rate when imported into the EU from ITA signatory countries. The ITA II agreement of 2016 confirmed coverage of telecommunications infrastructure components. Imports from non-ITA countries are subject to standard MFN rates verified in TARIC. CBAM does not apply to optical fibre connectors.
How are optical fibre connectors classified in the CN?
Optical fibre connectors (SC, LC, FC, ST, MTP/MPO, E2000 and adapters) are classified under 8536 70 based on GRI Rule 1. The key criterion is the intended use for connecting optical fibres. Electrical connectors are classified under 8536 69. Fibre optic patch cords (cables with mounted connectors) may be classified under 8544 70. In case of doubt, a BTI ruling is recommended.
Are optical fibre connectors subject to CBAM?
No. CBAM covers only emissions-intensive goods: steel, aluminium, cement, fertilisers, hydrogen and electricity. Optical fibre connectors under 8536 70 are telecommunications components in Chapter 85 and fall outside CBAM. No CBAM registration, certificates or declarations are required.
What regulations apply when importing optical fibre connectors CN 8536 70?
Importing optical fibre connectors (CN 8536 70) requires the Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU and EMC 2014/30/EU compliance, CE marking and an EORI number. Check the duty rate in TARIC. Import VAT applies.
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