Table knives having fixed blades

Subheading 8211 91 of the Combined Nomenclature covers table knives with fixed blades, encompassing a wide range of knives used in catering, households and the food-processing industry. This category includes chef's knives (French or German profile), vegetable knives, bread knives with serrated blades, butcher's knives for boning and breaking down meat, fish-filleting knives, paring knives and general-purpose kitchen knives. The defining classification criterion is a fixed blade - unlike folding knives, the blade cannot be folded or retracted into the handle. Handles may be made of wood, plastic, rubber, horn, bone, metal or composite materials. The blade is typically of stainless steel, carbon steel, Damascus steel or ceramics such as zirconium oxide, provided the knife is not primarily intended for purposes other than cutting food. Subheading 8211 91 corresponds to a 6-digit HS code, meaning it is applied uniformly across all countries using the WCO Harmonised System. When importing consignments containing different types of knives, careful attention should be paid to the correct classification of each type to avoid under- or over-declaration of duties. Binding Tariff Information ruling is recommended where classification doubt arises regarding a specific product.

Importing fixed-blade knives under subheading 8211 91 into the European Union requires compliance with the Union Customs Code (Regulation (EU) No 952/2013). The importer must hold a valid EORI number and submit an electronic customs declaration with the correct CN code. Standard import documentation includes a commercial invoice describing the knives (type, blade length, blade material, handle material), customs value and country of origin, a transport document (CMR, bill of lading or airway bill) and a packing list. Kitchen and butcher's knives placed on the EU market must comply with the general product safety requirements of Regulation (EU) 2023/988 (GPSR). Blade and handle materials intended to come into contact with foodstuffs must conform to Regulation (EC) No 1935/2004. Certain Member States apply additional national rules governing the sale of knives - importers distributing knives in specific EU countries should verify local requirements regarding maximum blade length and permitted knife categories. To apply preferential duty rates, a valid proof of origin complying with the relevant free trade agreement must accompany the goods. The total import cost includes customs duty, VAT at the national rate applicable in the destination country, and any customs examination charges. Current rates and requirements should be verified in the TARIC database.

MFN duty rates for knives under subheading 8211 91 must be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database. Preferential duty rates may be available under EU preferential trade arrangements with numerous partner countries, including Japan (EPA), South Korea, Canada (CETA), the United Kingdom (TCA), Vietnam (EVFTA), Turkey (Customs Union) and many others, as well as under the GSP and EBA initiative for least-developed countries. Benefiting from customs preferences requires compliance with the rules of origin set out in the applicable agreement and possession of a valid proof of origin document (EUR.1, invoice declaration or REX statement). Chinese exports of kitchen knives have historically been subject to EU anti-dumping investigations - importers should verify in TARIC the current status of trade defence measures for subheading 8211 91 and the specific country of origin. Imports of cutlery and knives from Russia and Belarus may be subject to restrictions under EU sanctions packages. Incorrect classification or failure to account for anti-dumping measures can lead to significant additional duty liabilities. All current rates and measures must be verified in TARIC before concluding a commercial agreement.

CN code 8211 91 covers table and kitchen knives. Import into the EU is subject to TARIC duty rates depending on country of origin. Products must comply with relevant EN safety standards and, for food-contact items, Regulation EC 1935/2004. Customs clearance requires a commercial invoice, certificate of origin and manufacturer's declaration of conformity. BTI rulings can help ensure correct classification.