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32062000
TANNING OR DYEING EXTRACTS; TANNINS AND THEIR DERIVATIVES; DYES, PIGMENTS AND OTHER COLOURING MATTER; PAINTS AND VARNISHES; PUTTY AND OTHER MASTICS; INKSOther colouring matter; preparations as specified in note 3 to this chapter, other than those of heading 3203, 3204 or 3205; inorganic products of a kind used as luminophores, whether or not chemically defined

Pigments and preparations based on chromium compounds

Tariff classification and scope of CN code 320620

CN code 320620 covers pigments based on chromium compounds such as chrome yellow, chrome orange, and chrome green classified under Chapter 32 of the Combined Nomenclature. Chromium pigments include both trivalent and hexavalent chromium compounds. Hexavalent chromium is subject to strict REACH restrictions. Customs clearance requires proper product identification based on technical documentation, analytical certificates, and commercial specifications. Import of such products into the EU requires compliance with tariff and non-tariff requirements under EU regulations. Potential trade policy measures such as anti-dumping duties or tariff quotas that may affect import costs should also be considered.

EU import regulatory requirements

Import of goods under CN code 320620 into the EU is subject to the REACH Regulation (EC No 1907/2006) and CLP Regulation (EC No 1272/2008). The importer must ensure ECHA registration of each substance. A Safety Data Sheet (SDS) compliant with Regulation (EU) 2020/878 is required. These products may also be subject to chemical substance regulations for paints and dyes. CLP labelling must include hazard pictograms, signal words, H and P statements. Transport is subject to ADR/RID regulations. These substances are not subject to CBAM. Storage must comply with environmental and occupational health and safety requirements.

Trade aspects and customs documentation

Customs declarations for imports under CN code 320620 should include full specification, CAS numbers, commercial form, and intended use. Importers may benefit from tariff preferences under EU trade agreements or the GSP system. Rate verification in the TARIC database is recommended before each transaction. Export may require verification under the Dual-Use Export Control Regulation (EU) 2021/821. Quality control should include chemical composition testing, specification compliance, and safety requirements verification.

VOC standards and emission limits

When importing Chromium compound pigments (CN 3206 20) into the EU, VOC content regulations under Directive 2004/42/EC must be considered. Decorative paints and automotive refinish products have established VOC limits. CLP classification requires appropriate GHS pictogram labelling on packaging. Pigments containing heavy metals (lead, cadmium, chromium VI) are subject to strict REACH restrictions (Annex XVII). Importers must have SDS sheets and ensure labelling complies with destination country regulations. Conformity testing may include spectrometric analysis for composition verification.

Frequently asked questions

What are the main applications of products under CN code 320620?
Chromium compound pigments are used primarily in the paints, ceramics, and glass industries. Specific use depends on the composition and commercial form. Tariff classification is not dependent on end use but on objective product characteristics at the time of customs clearance.
Does import of these products require special permits?
Generally, import does not require separate import permits beyond standard REACH and CLP obligations. For SVHC substances or those subject to REACH authorisation, additional permits may be required. Substance status should be verified in the ECHA database.
How to verify correct classification under code 320620?
Classification can be confirmed by obtaining a Binding Tariff Information (BTI) from the customs authority. A BTI is valid for 3 years and binds customs authorities in all EU Member States. Consulting a customs agency or tariff advisor is also recommended.
What VOC limits apply to paints and coatings CN 3206 20?
Paints and coatings under CN code 3206 20 are subject to VOC limits per Directive 2004/42/EC. Matt decorative paints: max 30 g/l, gloss decorative paints: max 100-150 g/l, industrial coatings: limits vary by application.