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76
Tariff Chapter 76
Aluminium plates, sheets and strip, of a thickness exceeding 0,2 mm
What does heading 7606 of the customs tariff cover?
Heading 7606 covers aluminium plates, sheets and strip exceeding 0.2 mm thick. Aluminium is a lightweight metal with excellent corrosion resistance, high thermal and electrical conductivity. It is widely used in construction, transport, aerospace, packaging and electronics. Aluminium alloys (e.g. 6000, 7000 series) combine lightness with high strength. Customs duty rates are generally 0% to 7.5% depending on the product. Heading 7606 is part of Chapter 76 (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 7606 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 7606 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.
Duty rates and import requirements for heading 7606
Customs duty rates are generally 0% to 7.5% depending on the product. Aluminium and aluminium products are subject to the CBAM (Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism) - from 2026, importers must purchase CBAM certificates corresponding to CO2 emissions associated with aluminium production. Import may be subject to anti-dumping duties on aluminium products from certain countries. Import of aluminium plates, sheets and strip exceeding 0.2 mm thick is subject to CBAM - reporting of CO2 emissions from aluminium production is required. Check whether anti-dumping duties apply to aluminium products from the given country. Documentation must include the aluminium alloy grade and chemical composition. Aluminium products for food contact must comply with Regulation (EC) No 1935/2004. When importing goods under heading 7606 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 7606 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).
Classification of goods under heading 7606 - key considerations
Heading 7606 covers aluminium plates, sheets and strip exceeding 0.2 mm thick. Aluminium is a lightweight metal with excellent corrosion resistance, high thermal and electrical conductivity. Distinction from 7605 (aluminium wire) and 7607 (aluminium foil not exceeding 0.2 mm thic) requires analysis of material, form and intended use. Decisive factor: precise determination of base material, processing stage and end-use of the product.
Frequently asked questions
What are the EU customs duty rates for aluminium plates, sheets and strip (heading 7606)?
EU customs duty rates for aluminium plates, sheets and strip exceeding 0.2 mm thick under heading 7606 range from 0% to 7.5% depending on the CN subheading, alloy and temper condition. Alloy aluminium sheets may attract higher rates than non-alloy sheets. From 2026, aluminium products are subject to CBAM. Preferential rates may apply for countries with EU trade agreements. Anti-dumping duties may apply to aluminium sheets from certain countries. Current duty rates should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database. Classification follows the Combined Nomenclature (CN) of the European Union.
What documents are required when importing aluminium sheets into the EU?
A material certificate confirming the aluminium alloy, temper condition and mechanical properties is required. Sheets must comply with EN 485 (rolled sheets and strip). CBAM registration from 2026 is mandatory. Sheets for construction require CE marking. Sheets for food contact must comply with Regulation (EC) 1935/2004. A certificate of origin (EUR.1) is needed for preferential tariff rates. The customs declaration must precisely specify the alloy and thickness. This applies to goods classified under heading 7606 of the Combined Nomenclature. Current duty rates should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database. Classification follows the Combined Nomenclature (CN) of the European Union.
What practical considerations apply when importing aluminium sheets from third countries?
Precise alloy and thickness specification is critical for correct tariff classification - the 0.2 mm threshold separates headings 7606 and 7607. CBAM from 2026 significantly impacts aluminium import costs due to the high energy intensity of production. Sheets should be packed with interleaving to prevent scratches and chemical reaction between layers. Surface quality (mill finish, brushed, polished) must match specifications. Dimensional control (thickness, width, flatness) is important for downstream processing. Current duty rates should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database. Classification follows the Combined Nomenclature (CN) of the European Union.
Useful tools & resources
Customs calculators
Duty & VAT CalculatorCalculate customs duty and VAT for "Aluminium plates, sheets and strip, of a thickness exceeding 0,2 mm" and see the full import cost.CBAM CalculatorCalculate the CBAM (Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism) fee for CO2 emissions linked to your import.Import Profitability CalculatorCheck the import profitability of "Aluminium plates, sheets and strip, of a thickness exceeding 0,2 mm" with all costs included.
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