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22
Tariff Chapter 22
Wine of fresh grapes, including fortified wines; grape must other than that of heading 2009
220410
Sparkling wine
Duty:0-50%
220421
Other wine; grape must with fermentation prevented or arrested by the addition of alcohol - In containers holding 2 litres or less
Duty:0-50%
220422
In containers holding more than 2 litres but not more than 10 litres
Duty:0-50%
220429
Other
Duty:0-50%
220430
Other grape must
Duty:0-50%
What does heading 2204 of the customs tariff cover?
Heading 2204 covers wine of fresh grapes, including fortified wines, and grape must other than that of heading 2009. This includes red, white, rosé, sparkling (champagne, prosecco), and fortified wines (port, sherry). Duty rates are varied and include ad valorem and specific duties. Wine imports are subject to excise duty and accompanying document requirements (VI-1, VI-2). EU wine regulation labelling compliance is required. Poland is a growing wine market in the EU, with imports constituting the vast majority of consumption. Heading 2204 is part of Chapter 22 (fats, processed food, beverages and tobacco) of the Combined Nomenclature (CN) used in the European Union. This classification is based on the Harmonized System (HS) developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO), which is used in over 200 countries worldwide. The EU Combined Nomenclature extends the HS with additional 8-digit subheadings, while the TARIC system adds 10-digit codes for identifying specific trade measures. Each 4-digit heading such as 2204 is subdivided into 6-digit (HS), 8-digit (CN) and 10-digit (TARIC) subheadings that specify the type of goods for the purpose of applying the correct duty rates, trade measures and regulatory requirements. Correct determination of the 10-digit code is essential for establishing the amount of customs duties and taxes, as well as required permits and certificates. Classification of goods under heading 2204 must follow the General Rules for the Interpretation (GRI) of the Combined Nomenclature. Rule 1 states that classification is determined primarily by the terms of the headings and the relevant section or chapter notes. The Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System and the Combined Nomenclature clarify the scope of each heading and are essential references for importers and customs brokers.
Duty rates and import requirements for heading 2204
Duty rates are varied and include ad valorem and specific duties. Wine imports are subject to excise duty and accompanying document requirements (VI-1, VI-2). EU wine regulation labelling compliance is required. Poland is a growing wine market in the EU, with imports constituting the vast majority of consumption. Domestic wine production is developing, but imports from France, Italy, Spain, and the New World dominate the market. Duty rates vary — sparkling wines have higher rates than still wines. Wine imports subject to excise duty — excise stamps and tax warehouse required. VI-1 accompanying document required (third countries) confirming oenological practices. Labelling must comply with EU wine regulation (category, origin, alcohol content, etc.). When importing goods under heading 2204 into the European Union, attention must be paid to applicable duty rates, which depend on the specific subheading (8- or 10-digit code) and the country of origin. MFN (Most Favoured Nation) duty rates apply to imports from countries with which the EU does not have preferential trade agreements. Current rates can be checked in the EU TARIC database on the European Commission website. Import of goods under heading 2204 may benefit from preferential duty rates under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) concluded by the EU with third countries, the Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP) for developing countries, or autonomous tariff suspensions. Claiming preferences requires presentation of appropriate proof of origin (EUR.1 certificate, origin declaration, REX certificate or statement on origin under the registered exporter system).
Classification of goods under heading 2204 — key considerations
Heading 2204 covers wine from grapes, must. Key classification factors are the degree of processing, composition and intended use of the product. CN subheadings divide goods in detail. Common mistake: sok gronowy — 2009. The boundary with neighbouring headings (2205/2009) depends on the preservation or processing method. Section and chapter notes must be considered as they define the precise scope of each heading.
Frequently asked questions
What are the EU customs duty rates for importing wine from fresh grapes?
Duty rates for wine (heading 2204) are varied and include both ad valorem and specific duties. Sparkling wines (champagne, prosecco) are subject to higher rates than still wines. Rates depend on alcohol content, packaging type, and volume. Fortified wines such as port and sherry have separate rate structures. Preferential duty rates apply to wines from countries with EU trade agreements, such as Chile or South Africa. In addition to customs duty, wine is subject to excise duty in each member state. Current duty rates should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database. Classification follows the Combined Nomenclature (CN) of the European Union.
What documents and certificates are required to import wine into the EU?
Wine imports into the EU require accompanying documents VI-1 or VI-2, certifying compliance with EU oenological standards. A commercial invoice, transport document, and customs declaration are necessary. A certificate of origin is needed for preferential rates. Labelling must comply with Regulation (EU) 2019/33 on wine presentation, including designation of origin, grape variety, and alcohol content. The importer must be registered as an alcohol trader. Laboratory analysis certificates may be requested. This applies to goods classified under heading 2204 of the Combined Nomenclature. Current duty rates should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database. Classification follows the Combined Nomenclature (CN) of the European Union.
What practical considerations apply when importing wine into the EU?
Correct CN subheading classification is critical as rates differ significantly between sparkling and still wines. Temperature-controlled transport is essential to preserve wine quality. Verify that oenological practices used in the country of origin are permitted under EU regulations. Excise duty represents a substantial additional cost. Labels must include information in the target country's language. Consider importing in bulk and bottling within the EU to reduce shipping costs and adapt labelling locally. This applies to goods classified under heading 2204 of the Combined Nomenclature. Current duty rates should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database. Classification follows the Combined Nomenclature (CN) of the European Union.
Useful tools & resources
Customs calculators
Duty & VAT CalculatorCalculate customs duty and VAT for "Wine of fresh grapes, including fortified wines; grape must other than that of heading 2009" and see the full import cost.Excise Duty CalculatorCheck if your goods are subject to excise duty and calculate the tax amount.Import Profitability CalculatorCheck the import profitability of "Wine of fresh grapes, including fortified wines; grape must other than that of heading 2009" with all costs included.
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