Machines and apparatus for electroplating, electrolysis or electrophoresis

Subheading 854330 of the Combined Nomenclature covers machines and apparatus for electroplating, electrolysis and electrophoresis. Electroplating is the process of depositing a metal layer on a conductive surface by means of electrolysis, used in chrome plating, nickel plating, zinc plating, copper plating and gold plating of metal and plastic components. Equipment classified under 854330 includes complete electroplating lines, electroplating baths with DC power supply systems, plating rectifiers, cathode and anode holders, and process control systems. Electrolysis in the context of this subheading covers industrial processes such as electrolytic refining of metals, hydrogen production by water electrolysis and chlorine production. Laboratory electrophoresis equipment may be classified under 854330 or 854340, depending on technical specifics. Classification follows the GIR, rules 1 and 6. Electroplating equipment should be distinguished from thermal spraying equipment (heading 8424) and from standalone rectifiers (heading 8504). Where doubt exists, Binding Tariff Information ruling is recommended.

Electroplating equipment under subheading 854330 placed on the EU market is subject to the Machinery Regulation (EU) 2023/1230 where it constitutes a complete machine or machine assembly. CE marking, an EU declaration of conformity and operating instructions in the official language of the country of use are required. Electrically powered equipment is additionally subject to the Low Voltage Directive (2014/35/EU) and the EMC Directive (2014/30/EU). Electroplating lines with automated systems may require conformity assessment under the ATEX Directive (2014/34/EU) where explosive gases such as hydrogen are generated during the plating process. The RoHS 2 Directive (2011/65/EU) applies to electrical equipment placed on the consumer market, although large-scale industrial equipment may be excluded from the scope of RoHS 2 under Article 2(4)(c) of that directive. CBAM does not apply to equipment under Chapter 85. Import requires an EORI number and standard customs documentation.

Current MFN customs duty rates for subheading 854330 should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database before each customs clearance. Preferential duty rates may be available under EU FTAs such as CETA with Canada, EU-Korea, EPA with Japan, EVFTA with Vietnam and TCA with the United Kingdom, subject to rules of origin being met and valid proof of origin being presented. The importer should check in TARIC whether any anti-dumping or countervailing duties apply to electroplating equipment from a specific country of origin. Where electroplating lines are imported as sets of components, classification should follow the GIR rules on goods in an unassembled state (rule 2a). Water electrolysers for hydrogen production (power-to-gas) represent a growing market segment in the context of the European hydrogen strategy. Current 10-digit TARIC codes should be verified before customs clearance. National VAT is charged on every import at the applicable rate.

Importing electroplating equipment (CN 8543 30) into the European Union requires compliance with RoHS 2 (2011/65/EU), WEEE 2 (2012/19/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.