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Tariff Chapter 28

Fluor, chlor, brom i jod

What does heading 2801 of the customs tariff cover?

Heading 2801 covers fluorine, chlorine, bromine and iodine. These products belong to Chapter 28 of the Combined Nomenclature covering inorganic chemicals. They are used as raw materials in the chemical, metallurgical, electronics, pharmaceutical and many other industries. Import of inorganic chemicals of heading 2801 into the EU is subject to duty rates from 0% to 5.5%. A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and CLP labelling are required for chemical substances. Chemical substances must be registered under REACH before being placed on the EU market. Heading 2801 is part of Chapter 28 (chemical industry products, pharmaceuticals and fertilizers) 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 2801 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 2801 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 2801

Import of inorganic chemicals of heading 2801 into the EU is subject to duty rates from 0% to 5.5%. A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and CLP labelling are required for chemical substances. Chemical substances must be registered under REACH before being placed on the EU market. Substances of heading 2801 require REACH registration before being placed on the EU market. A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and proper CLP labelling (hazard pictograms) are required. Duty rates on inorganic chemicals range from 0% to 5.5% depending on the subheading. Transport of dangerous substances requires compliance with ADR/IMDG/IATA regulations. When importing goods under heading 2801 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 2801 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 2801 are subject to REACH, CLP and GHS controls. Required documentation includes: Safety Data Sheets (SDS), ECHA registration, GMP certificates (for pharmaceuticals). 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. The importer must file an electronic customs declaration in the national import system.

Classification of goods under heading 2801 - key considerations

Heading 2801 covers fluorine, chlorine, bromine and iodine in elemental form only. Chlorine gas/liquid: 2801 10, bromine: 2801 20, iodine: 2801 30. Aqueous chlorine solutions classify here, but sodium hypochlorite (bleach) falls under 2828. Hydrochloric acid (hydrogen chloride in solution) goes to 2806, not 2801. Common mistake: confusing elemental chlorine (2801) with chlorides (2827) or hypochlorites (2828).

Frequently asked questions

What duty rates apply to fluorine, chlorine, bromine and iodine (heading 2801)?
Imports of fluorine, chlorine, bromine and iodine into the EU are subject to duty rates ranging from 0% to 5.5%, depending on the specific element and its form. These products belong to Chapter 28 of the Combined Nomenclature covering inorganic chemicals. Iodine may benefit from reduced duty rates due to pharmaceutical applications. Correct classification requires distinguishing between pure elements and their compounds, which may fall under different tariff headings. Current duty rates should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database. Classification follows the Combined Nomenclature (CN) of the European Union.
What certificates and documents are required for importing halogens into the EU?
Importing halogens requires extensive regulatory documentation. A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) and proper CLP labelling in accordance with Regulation (EC) 1272/2008 are mandatory. Chemical substances must be registered under REACH Regulation (EC) 1907/2006 before being placed on the EU market. Chlorine and fluorine, as toxic gases, are subject to additional ADR/RID requirements for dangerous goods transport. Pre-registration or inquiry with ECHA may be necessary to verify registration status. This applies to goods classified under heading 2801 of the Combined Nomenclature. 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 considerations apply when importing fluorine, chlorine, bromine and iodine?
Halogens are hazardous substances requiring specialised transport and storage. Chlorine and fluorine are toxic gases transported in pressurised tanks under strict supervision. Bromine is a corrosive liquid requiring leak-proof, corrosion-resistant containers. Iodine in solid form is the easiest to transport. All halogens require compliance with ADR (road) or IMDG (maritime) dangerous goods regulations. Appropriate permits for hazardous substance storage are mandatory. Emergency response plans must be in place at receiving facilities. This applies to goods classified under heading 2801 of the Combined Nomenclature. Current duty rates should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database. Classification follows the Combined Nomenclature (CN) of the European Union.