Fishing rods

CN subheading 950710 covers fishing rods of all types and materials: spinning rods, feeder rods, fly fishing rods, bolognese rods, telescopic rods, carp rods, catfish rods, sea fishing rods (trolling, surfcasting) and ice fishing rods. The subheading covers the rod itself - without a reel or line attached. Classification is performed in accordance with the General Rules for the Interpretation of the CN (GRI); the decisive criterion is the angling purpose. Heading 9507 of the Combined Nomenclature groups fishing rods and other fishing articles: subheading 950710 covers fishing rods exclusively, while fishing reels are classified in 950720, fish-hooks in 950730, and other fishing articles (lines, floats, lures, artificial baits) in 950790. Carbon fibre, fibreglass and composite rods are all covered by 950710 - the material does not alter the classification provided the angling purpose is evident. Multi-section or telescopic rods sold with a transport bag are classified as a complete rod within 950710, provided the set clearly constitutes a finished fishing rod. Fishing rod starter sets including a rod, reel and accessories may require assessment under GRI 3b (essential character) or GRI 5b (packing materials and containers). Importers should maintain technical specifications for the goods. In case of classification doubt, Binding Tariff Information (BTI) ruling is recommended.

Imports of fishing rods classified under subheading 950710 into the European Union are subject to the General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR), Regulation (EU) 2023/988, applicable since 13 December 2024. Importers are required to carry out a risk assessment for fishing rods placed on the market, maintain technical documentation and designate a responsible person established in the EU. Fishing rods and angling accessories sold to consumers via online marketplaces must comply with GPSR information requirements, including clear identification of the responsible person, product description and safety information. Materials used in rod production - epoxy resins, adhesives, surface coatings, rubber or EVA handles - may be subject to restrictions under REACH Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 concerning hazardous substances and SVHC. Carbon fibre rods contain carbon fibres whose disposal is subject to general EU environmental regulations, though there is no specific sectoral regulation for fishing rods. Fishing rods explicitly marketed to children under 14 years of age may be subject to additional chemical substance restrictions under the Toy Safety Directive (2009/48/EC) if they are clearly intended for that age group. MFN customs duty rates and any applicable trade measures must be verified in the EU TARIC database before each import transaction.

MFN customs duty rates for subheading 950710 must be verified in the current EU TARIC database. Fishing rods are manufactured primarily in China, Japan, South Korea and Taiwan - depending on the country of origin and applicable free trade agreements, preferential rates may be available. Imports of fishing rods from Japan may benefit from preferential treatment under the EU-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) upon presentation of a valid proof of origin. Imports from GSP or GSP+ beneficiary countries may qualify for reduced rates, provided the rules of origin are met and the appropriate document is supplied. Importers should check in TARIC whether anti-dumping or countervailing duties apply for the country of export. Typical classification errors: classifying complete fishing starter sets (rod plus reel plus accessories) entirely within 950710 without GRI 3b analysis; classifying telescopic pole rods without an angling purpose under 950710 rather than heading 6601 (umbrellas) or 6602 (walking sticks); misclassifying carbon fibre rods in Chapter 68 (carbon fibre articles). Gift-pack fishing sets containing a rod and accessories are classified under GRI 3b or 5b. All customs duty rates and trade measures must be verified in the EU TARIC database.

Subheading CN 9507 10 covers fishing rods. When importing into the EU, verify applicable duty rates in TARIC, check CE marking requirements (if applicable), and prepare the required customs documentation. Tariff classification should be based on the General Rules of Interpretation (GIR) of the Combined Nomenclature. If classification is uncertain, applying for Binding Tariff Information (BTI) from the competent customs authority is recommended. Also verify whether the product is subject to import restrictions, sanctions, or licensing requirements.