Other bars and rods of stainless steel; angles, shapes and sections of stainless steel

Heading 7222 covers other bars and rods of stainless steel, as well as angles, shapes and sections of stainless steel. These products are used in the chemical, food processing, pharmaceutical, construction (decorative and structural elements), architecture and corrosion-resistant equipment manufacturing industries. EU duty rates are 0% for most subheadings. Imports are subject to safeguard measures with tariff-rate quotas, CBAM and potential anti-dumping duties on stainless steel from certain countries. An import licence, material certificate with chemical composition declaration and CE marking for structural elements are required. Heading 7222 is part of Chapter 72 (base metals and metal products) 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 7222 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 7222 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.

EU duty rates are 0% for most subheadings. Imports are subject to safeguard measures with tariff-rate quotas, CBAM and potential anti-dumping duties on stainless steel from certain countries. An import licence, material certificate with chemical composition declaration and CE marking for structural elements are required. Duty rate 0%, but check anti-dumping duties on stainless steel bars and profiles from the specific country. Structural stainless steel profiles require CE marking and Declaration of Performance. Material certificate 3.1 per EN 10204 with full chemical composition is the market standard. Import licence and CBAM registration required. When importing goods under heading 7222 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 7222 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).

Heading 7222 covers other bars and rods of stainless steel, as well as angles. These products are used in the chemical, food processing, pharmaceutical, construction (decorative and structural elements),. Distinction from 7221 (bars and rods, hot-rolled, in irregularl) and 7223 (wire of stainless steel, obtained by col) requires analysis of material, form and intended use. Decisive factor: precise determination of base material, processing stage and end-use of the product.