Other

Subheading 961590 of the Combined Nomenclature covers a variety of hair accessories not classified elsewhere in Chapter 96. It includes hat pins, hairpins, waved hairpins, hair-curlers, curling grips, and similar articles used for styling and securing hair or fixing headwear. Hairpins are typically made of steel wire or plastics and are used to pin and arrange hair in various styles. Hair-curlers and curling grips are hairdressing tools used to create curls and waves during permanent waving or thermal styling processes. These products are widely used by professional hairdressers and for domestic use worldwide. The category covers both simple functional items and more decorative varieties with embellishments.

When importing hairpins, hair-curlers and curling grips from third countries, it is necessary to correctly classify the goods under subheading 961590 based on their physical characteristics and intended use. Products in this group are often mass-produced in Asian countries and imported to the European Union in large quantities. Correct classification is essential for determining the applicable customs duty rate, applying any preferential treatment under trade agreements, and establishing relevant trade defence measures. Metal hairpins may attract particular scrutiny from customs authorities due to the possibility of misclassification as metal articles falling under other chapters. The customs value must include the price of goods, freight, and insurance costs to the EU border.

Hairpins, curling grips, and hair-curlers placed on the European Union market must comply with the requirements of the General Product Safety Regulation. Metal articles should be free from allergenic substances, particularly nickel released in excess of the permissible limits set out in the REACH Regulation and standards for jewellery and accessories in prolonged contact with skin. Hat pins, due to their length and sharp points, may be subject to specific safety requirements related to the risk of puncture injury. Importers are responsible for ensuring product compliance with applicable standards and keeping technical documentation available for inspection by market surveillance authorities. Any products intended for children must meet stricter safety requirements before being placed on the market.

Subheading CN 9615 90 covers hairpins curling pins curlers. When importing into the EU, verify applicable duty rates in TARIC, check CE marking requirements (if applicable), and prepare the required customs documentation. Tariff classification should be based on the General Rules of Interpretation (GIR) of the Combined Nomenclature. If classification is uncertain, applying for Binding Tariff Information (BTI) from the competent customs authority is recommended. Also verify whether the product is subject to import restrictions, sanctions, or licensing requirements.