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28469000
INORGANIC CHEMICALS; ORGANIC OR INORGANIC COMPOUNDS OF PRECIOUS METALS, OF RARE-EARTH METALS, OF RADIOACTIVE ELEMENTS OR OF ISOTOPESCompounds, inorganic or organic, of rare-earth metals, of yttrium or of scandium or of mixtures of these metals

Other

Classification of rare-earth compounds

CN code 284690 covers other rare-earth element (REE) compounds, including oxides, hydroxides, fluorides and other lanthanide salts not covered by more specific subheadings. Rare-earth metals encompass 17 elements: lanthanum, cerium, praseodymium, neodymium, samarium, europium, gadolinium, terbium, dysprosium, holmium, erbium, thulium, ytterbium, lutetium as well as scandium and yttrium. These compounds are critically used in permanent magnet production (NdFeB), phosphors, automotive catalysts, optical polishing, special ceramics and electronics. Classification requires identification of the specific element and compound, as the value and applications of individual REEs differ dramatically.

Regulations and strategic importance

Rare-earth metal compounds are subject to REACH registration. Most REE oxides are not classified as hazardous under CLP, although some lanthanide salts may be irritant. A Safety Data Sheet is required. Transport generally is not subject to ADR. Rare-earth metals are recognised as EU critical raw materials under the European Critical Raw Materials Act, meaning special political attention and possible regulatory preferences for their import and recycling. Export of REEs from the EU is generally not restricted, although dual-use provisions should be verified for high-purity compounds used in defence technologies.

Trade and customs procedures

Import of REE compounds under CN code 284690 requires documentation identifying the element, chemical form and purity. China dominates as a supplier, controlling a significant share of global production. Importers should check current duty rates in TARIC. Due to critical raw material status, the EU is actively developing alternative supply sources and recycling technologies. Preferential duty rates may be available under trade agreements, which is particularly important for diversifying supply chains. Proof of origin documentation is essential.

Transport safety and packaging

Importing Other rare-earth metal compounds (CN 2846 90) requires particular attention to chemical safety matters. Inorganic substances under this subheading are subject to REACH and CLP classification. The importer must have a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) in the destination country's language. Packaging must meet ADR/IMDG requirements depending on transport classification. Customs control may include sampling for laboratory analysis to verify declared composition. Duty rates depend on the specific TARIC subheading and goods origin.

Frequently asked questions

Are rare-earth metals classified as EU critical raw materials?
Yes. Rare-earth metals appear on the EU critical raw materials list (European Critical Raw Materials Act). This has political and regulatory implications, including priority treatment for mining and recycling projects in the EU and efforts to diversify supply sources away from China.
What are the main uses of imported REE compounds?
Main applications include NdFeB permanent magnets (wind turbines, electric vehicles), phosphors (screens, LED lighting), automotive catalysts (cerium), optical polishing (cerium oxide) and special ceramics and electronics. Demand is growing with the energy transition.
Is export of REE compounds from the EU subject to controls?
Export of REE compounds is generally unrestricted. However, high-purity compounds intended for defence or nuclear applications may require verification under Regulation (EU) 2021/821 on dual-use goods controls.
Does importing CN 2846 90 require REACH registration?
Yes, importing Other rare-earth metal compounds (CN 2846 90) in quantities above 1 tonne per year requires REACH registration. The importer can register independently or appoint an Only Representative for the non-EU manufacturer.