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48236100
PAPER AND PAPERBOARD; ARTICLES OF PAPER PULP, OF PAPER OR OF PAPERBOARDOther paper, paperboard, cellulose wadding and webs of cellulose fibres, cut to size or shape; other articles of paper pulp, paper, paperboard, cellulose wadding or webs of cellulose fibres

Of bamboo

Standard EU duty
0%
VAT
23%
Additional duties / sanctions
0 rules
Docs required
24 docs
L152Y727Y728Y870X844Y719+18
Preferences
ERGA OMNES 0%GB 0%
5

Binding Tariff Information

BTI classification examples

DEgold375/25-1

Disposable bamboo pulp paper plates

paperGRI 1GRI 2bGRI 5bGRI 6
DEgold474/25-1

Disposable bamboo pulp bowls with plastic coating

paperGRI 1GRI 2bGRI 5bGRI 6
DEgold474/25-2

Disposable bamboo paper cups with plastic coating

paperGRI 1GRI 2bGRI 5bGRI 6
FRgold25-00526

Black matte cardboard tray for food presentation

paperboardGRI 1GRI 6
DEgold691/24-1

Cat playhouse made of corrugated cardboard

paperboardGRI 1GRI 2aGRI 5bGRI 6

BTI (Binding Tariff Information) is an official EU customs decision confirming the classification of goods. Valid for 3 years, binding across all EU member states.

Classification of bamboo tableware under CN 4823 61

CN code 4823 61 covers trays, dishes, plates, cups, and similar articles of bamboo. This subheading concerns tableware and kitchen articles moulded from bamboo as disposable or reusable items. Bamboo products under code 4823 61 represent a growing market segment replacing single-use plastic tableware. Classification requires the product to be made of bamboo - tableware from non-bamboo paper pulp is classified under 4823 69 or 4823 70. Importers should hold documentation confirming the material composition, as some products declared as bamboo may contain melamine or other substances subject to additional regulations. Bamboo tableware with added melamine is subject to food contact plastic regulations.

FCM and EUDR requirements for bamboo tableware 4823 61

Importing bamboo tableware under CN code 4823 61 into the EU is subject to strict food safety requirements. Regulation (EC) No 1935/2004 requires food contact tableware not to release hazardous substances. Bamboo products with added melamine or formaldehyde are subject to restrictions under Regulation (EU) No 10/2011 on plastic FCM. The EUDR may apply to bamboo as a plant product - importers should verify current requirements. Import documentation includes an invoice, material composition certificate, FCM declaration with migration tests, certificate of origin, and potentially an EUDR statement.

Market and safety of bamboo tableware 4823 61

Bamboo tableware under CN code 4823 61 enjoys growing demand as an ecological alternative to single-use plastic tableware. The SUP Directive (EU) 2019/904 banning certain single-use plastics drives this trend. Major exporters include China, Vietnam, and India. However, EU authorities (including RASFF) have repeatedly warned about bamboo tableware with added melamine that may release formaldehyde and melamine above permitted limits. Importers must hold current migration test results. Correct classification requires confirmation of material composition - pure bamboo products are classified under 4823 61, while melamine products with added bamboo fall under Chapter 39.

Classification and import requirements for bamboo trays and dishes CN 4823 61

Bamboo trays and dishes classified under CN 4823 61 are subject to conventional customs duty when imported into the EU. Classification depends on composition, weight, and intended use of the paper or board. Products intended for food contact must meet additional requirements. Import VAT applies at destination rates.

Frequently asked questions

Are bamboo dishes 4823 61 with melamine safe?
Products declared as bamboo but containing melamine raise serious safety concerns. RASFF has repeatedly signalled exceedances of formaldehyde and melamine migration limits in such products. Importers must hold current migration tests in accordance with Regulation (EU) No 10/2011. Melamine products with added bamboo may be classified under Chapter 39, not Chapter 48.
Is bamboo tableware 4823 61 subject to EUDR?
The status of bamboo under the EUDR requires individual verification. Bamboo is not explicitly listed in Annex I of the EUDR, but importers should monitor regulation updates. Regardless of the EUDR, imports require compliance with FCM requirements and the Union Customs Code.
How to distinguish bamboo tableware 4823 61 from melamine products?
Pure bamboo tableware made exclusively from bamboo fibres and natural binders is classified under 4823 61. Melamine tableware with added bamboo fibres (as filler) is classified under Chapter 39 as plastic products. Laboratory testing of material composition is key.
What is the EU duty on bamboo trays and dishes CN 4823 61?
Bamboo trays and dishes under CN 4823 61 are subject to conventional EU customs duty and import VAT. Check the current rate in TARIC. Preferential rates may apply depending on origin.