85068000
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›Primary cells and primary batteries
Other primary cells and primary batteries
Subcodes (2)
Scope of subheading 850680
Subheading 850680 covers primary cells and batteries other than manganese (850610), mercury (850630), silver (850640), lithium (850650) and zinc-air (850660). Includes uncommon electrochemical systems: lithium-carbon fluoride (Li-CFx), lithium-sulfur dioxide (Li-SO2), thermal batteries and other specialised systems. Li-CFx have very long life for military/aerospace. Thermal batteries activated by heat are used in missiles and precision munitions. Classification requires primary (non-rechargeable) battery not fitting more specific subheadings. Classification per GRI 1 and 6.
Regulatory requirements
Subject to Battery Regulation (EU) 2023/1542. Specialised batteries (military, aerospace) may be subject to dual-use controls (Regulation (EU) 2021/821). Lithium-containing batteries subject to dangerous goods transport (IATA DGR, ADR, Class 9). RoHS 2 for consumer batteries. CBAM does not apply.
Customs duties and trade
MFN rates should be verified in TARIC. Niche and specialised trade. Main producers: EaglePicher (USA), Saft (France), companies from Germany and Japan. Military/aerospace batteries have separate distribution channels. Preferential rates require rules of origin. VAT charged on import.
EU Battery Regulation and batteries under 8506 80
Primary batteries under CN 8506 80 are subject to the EU Battery Regulation (EU) 2023/1542. From 18 February 2027, portable batteries must meet requirements for minimum recycled content, labelling and a battery passport. Mercury oxide batteries are banned in the EU. MFN duty: 4.7%. Import requires registration in the national battery producer registry. WEEE obligations also apply.
Frequently asked questions
What electrochemical systems does subheading 850680 cover?
Batteries not covered by more specific subheadings: lithium-carbon fluoride (Li-CFx) with very long life, lithium-sulfur dioxide (Li-SO2) for military, thermal batteries (heat-activated for missiles/munitions), magnesium cells, water-activated cells and experimental systems.
Do thermal batteries require dual-use licences?
Thermal batteries used in weapons systems (missiles, torpedoes, precision munitions) may be subject to export controls as dual-use goods under Regulation (EU) 2021/821. Import may require end-use verification. Duty rates should be verified in TARIC.
Are products under CN 85 06 80 subject to Subject to CBAM?
No. CBAM covers: steel, aluminium, cement, fertilisers, electricity and hydrogen. Batteries from Chapter 85 are not within CBAM scope.
What Battery Regulation requirements apply to 8506 80?
Batteries under 8506 80 are subject to (EU) 2023/1542: labelling, minimum recycled content from 2027, producer registration, and battery passport. Mercury batteries are banned.
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