Other

Subheading 854449 of the Combined Nomenclature covers other insulated electric conductors for a voltage not exceeding 1000 V, not specified under more specific subheadings. Typical products include installation cables, control cables, flexible cables, industrial automation cables and multi-core conductors in PVC or PE insulation without fitted connectors. The key criterion distinguishing this from 854442: conductors under 854449 do not have connectors (plugs, terminals) and are sold by the metre or on drums. This subheading accounts for the largest trade volume among all insulated conductor subheadings. Conductors for voltage exceeding 1000 V are classified under 854460. Coaxial cables are classified under 854420; fibre optic cables under 854470. Classification follows the GIR, rules 1 and 6, taking into account the notes to Chapter 85.

Insulated conductors under subheading 854449 placed on the EU market are subject to the RoHS 2 Directive (2011/65/EU) restricting hazardous substances. Under the CPR Regulation (EU) No 305/2011, permanently installed cables used in construction works are subject to a declaration of performance regarding reaction to fire (Euroclass classification) and CE marking as a construction product. Installation cables must meet IEC or EN standards for insulation, voltage withstand and fire resistance. The Low Voltage Directive (2014/35/EU) applies to power cables as elements of electrical installations. CBAM does not apply to insulated conductors under Chapter 85. Import requires an EORI number and standard customs documentation containing a technical specification (type, cross-section, rated voltage, standard). For cables intended for permanent installations, CE marking under CPR may be required.

Current MFN customs duty rates for subheading 854449 should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database. Insulated conductors up to 1000 V represent one of the largest import segments by volume in Chapter 85, with key suppliers from China, Turkey and India. Preferential duty rates may be available under FTAs. The importer should check in TARIC whether any anti-dumping or countervailing duties apply to cables and wires from a specific country. The EU has historically conducted anti-dumping proceedings regarding cables and wires from China. Imports from Russia and Belarus are subject to sanctions restrictions. Rules of origin require sufficient processing, including the insulating and forming of the conductor. Current 10-digit TARIC codes should be checked before customs clearance. National VAT is charged on every import.

Importing other conductors up to 1 kV (CN 8544 49) into the European Union requires compliance with RoHS 2 (2011/65/EU), WEEE 2 (2012/19/EU) and CE marking. An EORI number and correct customs declaration are mandatory. MFN duty rates should be verified in TARIC, as ITA preferences or EU FTA rates (e.g. CETA, EPA, EU-Korea) may apply. Import from Russia and Belarus is subject to EU sanctions. National import VAT applies at the destination Member State rate.