Of plastics

Subheading 9003 11 of the Combined Nomenclature covers frames and mountings for spectacles and similar articles made of plastics. This encompasses frames for corrective spectacles (frames without lenses, intended for fitting prescription lenses), frames for sunglasses (without lenses), and frames for protective eyewear intended for subsequent lens fitting. Typical materials include cellulose acetate (CA), polyamide (nylon, PA), TR90 (a thermoplastic elastomeric nylon co-polymer), polycarbonate (PC), PMMA and composite plastics. The defining classification criterion is the material of the main structural frame: plastic frames are classified under 9003 11 regardless of the specific plastic type, while metal frames fall under subheading 9003 19. Frames with mixed materials (e.g. acetate front and metal hinges) are classified by essential character or under GRI rule 3c. Complete sunglasses fitted with lenses are classified under heading 9004, not 9003. Frames must be clearly intended for spectacles or similar eyewear - visually similar items with a different purpose (e.g. industrial face shields) are classified elsewhere. Classification is performed under GRI rules 1 and 6 with reference to the HS Explanatory Notes to heading 9003. A BTI application is recommended in cases of doubt.

Importing plastic spectacle frames under subheading 9003 11 into the EU requires compliance with the Union Customs Code (Regulation (EU) No 952/2013) and assessment of applicable product safety regulations. Frames for protective eyewear used in the workplace are subject to Regulation (EU) 2016/425 on personal protective equipment (PPE, Category II or III), require CE marking, an EU declaration of conformity and involvement of a notified body - the key standard is EN ISO 16321 (eye and face protection at work) replacing EN 166. Frames for sunglasses sold to consumers are subject to Regulation (EU) 2023/988 on general product safety and the standard EN ISO 12312-1 for sunglasses. REACH Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 is particularly relevant: cellulose acetate and other plastics must not contain SVHC substances above permissible concentrations. Special attention must be paid to azo dyes and plasticisers (phthalates) in acetate frames. Importers from third countries must hold an EORI number and file a customs declaration with the 10-digit TARIC code, a commercial invoice with material description (plastic type, weight, dimensions), transport document and, for protective or sunglass frames, an EU declaration of conformity. A label stating the material composition and country of manufacture is required.

Plastic spectacle frames under subheading 9003 11 are consumer products not covered by the WTO ITA, which applies exclusively to information and communication technology products. The MFN duty rate for subheading 9003 11 must be verified in the current TARIC database of the European Commission, as rates and trade measures are updated regularly. Preferential rates may be available under EU FTAs with the country of export: CETA (Canada), EPA (Japan, Korea), EU-UK TCA, and agreements with developing countries under GSP and GSP+. Applying a preferential rate requires compliance with the rules of origin under the relevant agreement (typically requiring sufficient processing of non-originating materials) and presentation of proof of origin: EUR.1, invoice declaration for consignments up to EUR 6,000, or a REX exporter statement. A substantial share of spectacle frames is imported from China. Imports from China are subject to the general MFN rate and any applicable anti-dumping measures - importers should check current measures in TARIC. Products of Chapter 90 are not subject to CBAM. VAT at the national rate applies on import. Importers should verify rates in TARIC before each importation.

Importing plastic spectacle frames (CN 9003 11) from certain Asian countries may be subject to trade defence or anti-dumping measures. Cellulose acetate frames are the most popular premium material, while polyamide (nylon) and TR-90 frames dominate the sports segment. Only frames without lenses are classified here. Frames with corrective or sun lenses are classified under heading 9004. Standard EN ISO 12870 governs strength and durability requirements for frames.