Other bars and rods

CN code 7222 30 covers bars of stainless steel that have been subjected to further working beyond mere cold-finishing or cold-forming operations such as bending or simple surface treatment. Qualifying processes include forging, grinding, polishing or other surface or shape-altering treatments. Note 1(f) to Chapter 72 defines stainless steel as an alloy of iron containing at least 1.2% chromium and not more than 1.2% carbon, engineered to resist corrosion. The critical distinction between stainless steel bars under heading 7222 and tool steel bars under heading 7228 lies in the carbon and alloying element content: tool steels contain higher carbon levels and additions of tungsten, molybdenum or vanadium that impart hardness for cutting applications. Bars must have a solid cross-section of uniform shape throughout their length. Correct classification requires a certified mill test report confirming the chemical composition, as misclassification may result in underpayment or overpayment of applicable customs duties.

From 1 January 2026, imports of stainless steel bars classified under CN code 7222 30 from countries outside the EU are subject to the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism under Regulation (EU) 2023/956. Importers must purchase CBAM certificates corresponding to the embedded CO2 emissions generated during production in the country of origin. Both direct emissions from electric arc furnaces and indirect emissions linked to electricity consumption are included in the calculation. Transitional reporting arrangements applied during 2023-2025; from 2026, full financial liability applies. Exporters from countries with ETS systems recognised as equivalent to the EU ETS, such as Switzerland and EEA states, may benefit from reductions or exemptions subject to appropriate documentation. Importers should establish robust data collection procedures with their suppliers to ensure timely and accurate CBAM declarations.

Imports of stainless steel bars into the EU are subject to steel safeguard measures establishing quarterly tariff rate quotas (TRQs). Within the allocated quota, no additional safeguard duty applies; once the quota is exhausted, an additional duty of 25% is levied. Quota utilisation is managed by the European Commission and available on a quarterly basis, with popular product categories sometimes exhausted within days of the quarter opening. Parallel anti-dumping or countervailing duties may apply for imports from specific countries, including China, and these accumulate with the safeguard duty. Importers must verify the exact country of origin, particularly for goods transiting through processing hubs in Asia. EU sanctions comprehensively prohibit imports of stainless steel bars originating in Russia and Belarus; any supply chain links to sanctioned entities must be identified and excluded before importation.

When importing stainless steel bars further worked under CN code 7222 30 into the EU, a customs declaration must be filed with the correct TARIC code. Required documents include a commercial invoice, bill of lading, certificate of origin and a quality certificate showing chemical composition. Steel products may be subject to anti-dumping or countervailing duties depending on the country of origin, particularly for imports from China, Russia and Turkey. EU safeguard measures impose an additional 25% duty once the tariff-rate quota is exhausted. Import VAT applies at the destination Member.