31052000
FERTILISERS›Mineral or chemical fertilisers containing two or three of the fertilising elements nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium; other fertilisers; goods of this chapter in tablets or similar forms or in packages of a gross weight not exceeding 10 kg
Mineral or chemical fertilisers containing the three fertilising elements nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium
Subcodes (2)
Classification of NPK fertilisers
CN code 310520 covers mineral or chemical fertilisers containing three nutrients: nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium (NPK fertilisers). These are among the most widely used compound fertilisers in agriculture, produced by granulation, compaction or physical blending. Typical formulations include NPK 15-15-15, 20-10-10, 16-16-16 and other ratios tailored to crop needs. Classification under code 310520 requires the presence of all three macronutrients (N, P, K) in plant-available fertiliser form. A certificate of analysis stating the percentage content of N, P2O5 and K2O is required during customs clearance.
Fertiliser regulations and CBAM
NPK fertilisers are subject to Regulation (EU) 2019/1009 regarding quality, labelling and contaminant limits, including cadmium in the phosphorus component. Import of NPK fertilisers into the EU is subject to CBAM as nitrogen-containing fertilisers under heading 3105. From 2026, importers must purchase CBAM certificates corresponding to embedded CO2 emissions. NPK fertilisers are subject to REACH. Transport is not subject to ADR unless they contain ammonium nitrate above certain concentrations, in which case they may be classified as oxidising materials.
Trade and customs procedures
Import of NPK fertilisers under CN code 310520 requires a commercial invoice with NPK formulation, certificate of analysis and CBAM documentation. Major producers include Russia, Morocco, China and Belarus. Importers must comply with CBAM reporting obligations. Current duty rates and any protective measures should be verified in TARIC. EU trade sanctions may restrict imports from certain countries. Proof of origin documentation enables tariff preferences.
EU Fertilising Products Regulation 2019/1009
Importing fertilisers under CN code 3105 20 (NPK fertilisers with nitrogen) is subject to EU Regulation 2019/1009 on fertilising products. Fertilisers must meet quality standards regarding nutrient content, heavy metals (Cd, Pb, Hg), and contaminants. Labels must include an EU declaration of conformity, composition, and application instructions. Transport of high-nitrogen fertilisers falls under ADR (class 5.1). Import from third countries may require a phytosanitary certificate. Market surveillance authorities verify declared parameters against the label.
Frequently asked questions
Are NPK fertilisers subject to CBAM?
Yes. NPK fertilisers under CN code 310520 are subject to CBAM as nitrogen-containing fertilisers. From 2026, importers must purchase CBAM certificates. Embedded CO2 emissions include emissions from the production of the nitrogen component.
What contaminant limits apply to NPK fertilisers?
Regulation (EU) 2019/1009 sets heavy metal limits: cadmium (max. 60 mg/kg P2O5 in the phosphorus component), chromium(VI), mercury, nickel, lead and arsenic. Limits apply to CE-marked fertilisers. Non-CE fertilisers are subject to national regulations.
Is NPK fertiliser with ammonium nitrate dangerous goods?
NPK fertilisers containing ammonium nitrate above certain concentrations may be classified as oxidising materials under ADR (Class 5.1). The ammonium nitrate content and detonation resistance test result are decisive. Standard NPK fertilisers with low ammonium nitrate content are not subject to ADR.
What standards must fertilisers CN 3105 20 meet in the EU?
Fertilisers under CN code 3105 20 must comply with EU Regulation 2019/1009 (FPR) setting limits on heavy metals, minimum nutrient content, and labelling requirements.
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