85051900
ELECTRICAL MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENT AND PARTS THEREOF; SOUND RECORDERS AND REPRODUCERS, TELEVISION IMAGE AND SOUND RECORDERS AND REPRODUCERS, AND PARTS AND ACCESSORIES OF SUCH ARTICLES›Electromagnets; permanent magnets and articles intended to become permanent magnets after magnetisation; electromagnetic or permanent magnet chucks, clamps and similar holding devices; electromagnetic couplings, clutches and brakes; electromagnetic lifting heads
Other
Scope of subheading 850519 - non-metal permanent magnets
Subheading 850519 covers permanent magnets other than metal (850511). Includes ferrite (ceramic) magnets from iron/barium/strontium oxides, plastic-bonded magnets, flexible rubber magnets and composite magnets. Ferrite magnets are cheaper than NdFeB and used in speakers, automotive motors (wipers, window lifts), household appliances and magnetic mounting systems. Flexible (rubber) magnets used in advertising, magnetic labels and fridge seals. Classification per GRI 1 and 6.
Regulatory requirements for non-metal magnets
Import requires EORI. RoHS 2 applies to consumer device magnets. Toy Safety Directive 2009/48/EC applies to toy magnets - small magnets pose swallowing hazards with strict safety requirements (EN 71-1). REACH may apply to coatings and substances in composite magnets. CBAM does not apply.
Customs duties and trade in non-metal magnets
MFN rates should be verified in TARIC. Ferrite magnets imported mainly from China. Flexible magnets from China and Taiwan. Stable market due to broad automotive and appliance use. Preferential rates under FTAs require rules of origin. VAT charged on import.
Critical raw materials and magnet imports 8505 19
Magnets under CN 8505 19 fall under the Critical Raw Materials Regulation (EU) 2024/1252, introducing supply chain traceability requirements for permanent magnets. Neodymium magnets (NdFeB) contain rare earth elements on the EU critical raw materials list. MFN duty: 2.7%. CE declaration is required for electromagnetic couplings. Export controls may apply for high-performance magnets.
Frequently asked questions
How do ferrite magnets differ from neodymium?
Ferrite (ceramic) magnets under 850519 are iron oxide/barium/strontium compounds, much weaker than NdFeB (850511). Ferrites have BHmax of 3–5 MGOe vs 35–52 MGOe for NdFeB. Ferrites are cheaper, corrosion-resistant and thermally stable but require larger sizes for equivalent force. Used where cost matters more than miniaturisation.
Are small magnets in toys subject to special regulations?
Yes. Toy Safety Directive 2009/48/EC and EN 71-1 set strict requirements for magnets in toys. Small magnets pose swallowing hazards - two swallowed magnets can attract through intestinal walls causing serious injury. Toys with magnets must pass magnetic force and detachment tests. Warnings must be placed on packaging.
Are ferrite magnets subject to CBAM?
No. CBAM covers: steel, aluminium, cement, fertilisers, electricity and hydrogen. Magnets from Chapter 85 are not within CBAM scope.
Are neodymium magnets under 8505 19 subject to CRM Act?
Yes, permanent magnets under 8505 19 containing rare earths are subject to the Critical Raw Materials Regulation (EU) 2024/1252, requiring supply chain traceability.
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