56031100
WADDING, FELT AND NONWOVENS; SPECIAL YARNS; TWINE, CORDAGE, ROPES AND CABLES AND ARTICLES THEREOF›Nonwovens, whether or not impregnated, coated, covered or laminated
Of man-made filaments - Weighing not more than 25 g/m²
Classification and characteristics of lightweight nonwovens
CN code 560311 covers nonwovens of man-made synthetic or artificial fibres weighing not more than 25 g/m². These are ultra-lightweight materials produced mainly by spunbond or meltblown methods, widely used in the manufacture of disposable hygiene products, protective masks, air filters, and packaging materials. Meltblown nonwovens below 25 g/m² form the critical filtration layer in FFP2 and FFP3 protective masks. For customs classification, the weight confirmed by laboratory testing and the fibre type are decisive, as the 25 g/m² threshold separates this subheading from code 560312. Importers should include a weight test certificate in the customs documentation.
Regulatory requirements and product safety
Synthetic nonwovens imported into the EU are subject to the Textile Regulation (EU) No 1007/2011 for labelling purposes. Where the nonwoven is intended for manufacturing personal protective equipment such as FFP masks or protective coveralls, the PPE Regulation (EU) 2016/425 applies, with CE marking and notified body certification required. Medical nonwovens used in surgical products are subject to the MDR (EU) 2017/745. REACH restricts the use of chemical substances in these products. From 2026, manufacturers should consider the requirements of the ESPR regulation on ecodesign and the digital product passport.
Import practice and trade aspects
When clearing nonwovens under CN code 560311, the customs declaration should include information on weight, production method, fibre composition, and intended use. Lightweight nonwovens are mainly imported from China, South Korea, and Turkey. For imports from countries covered by FTA agreements, preferential duty rates may apply. Transport of nonwovens requires protection against moisture and contamination, especially for medical and hygiene nonwovens that must be transported under sterile or clean conditions. Importers should regularly check current rates in TARIC, as protective measures may be in force in the nonwovens market.
Lightweight synthetic nonwovens CN 5603 11 – market and import
CN code 5603 11 covers nonwovens of synthetic fibres weighing not more than 25 g/m². These are very lightweight nonwovens used in hygiene (liners, nappies), medicine (covers, masks), filtration and packaging. Weight is the key classification criterion – subheadings 5603 11-14 divide nonwovens by mass. Importing hygiene products may require additional sanitary requirements.
Frequently asked questions
How to confirm nonwoven weight for customs classification purposes?
Nonwoven weight is confirmed by laboratory testing in accordance with EN ISO 9073-1 or equivalent. The test result in g/m² determines the assignment to code 560311 (up to 25 g/m²), 560312 (over 25 to 70 g/m²), 560313 (over 70 to 150 g/m²), or 560314 (over 150 g/m²). The test certificate should be included in the customs documentation.
Does meltblown nonwoven for FFP masks require CE certification?
The nonwoven itself as a raw material does not require CE certification. However, the finished FFP mask as personal protective equipment must bear CE marking in accordance with the PPE Regulation (EU) 2016/425 and hold a type examination certificate issued by a notified body confirming compliance with EN 149.
Which nonwoven production methods are covered by code 560311?
Code 560311 covers nonwovens of synthetic or artificial fibres produced by any method, including spunbond, meltblown, needlepunch, thermal bonding, or hydroentangling, provided the weight does not exceed 25 g/m². The decisive factors are weight and fibre type, not the production method itself.
How does weight affect classification of synthetic nonwovens CN 5603?
Synthetic nonwovens CN 5603 are divided by weight: up to 25 g/m² (5603 11), 25-70 g/m² (5603 12), 70-150 g/m² (5603 13), over 150 g/m² (5603 14). Weight is measured in the laboratory per ISO 9073.
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