56074900
WADDING, FELT AND NONWOVENS; SPECIAL YARNS; TWINE, CORDAGE, ROPES AND CABLES AND ARTICLES THEREOF›Twine, cordage, ropes and cables, whether or not plaited or braided and whether or not impregnated, coated, covered or sheathed with rubber or plastics
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Subcodes (3)
Tariff classification and product scope
CN code 560749 covers twine, cordage, and ropes of polyethylene or polypropylene, other than binder or baler twine. These products are made from high-strength, lightweight synthetic fibres, making them suitable for marine, industrial, agricultural, and sports applications. Polypropylene ropes are notable for their buoyancy, which is crucial in marine applications. Customs classification requires confirmation of polymer composition and exclusion from the binder or baler twine category, which has a separate code. Customs documentation should include a technical specification covering polymer composition, diameter, braid construction, and tensile strength.
Regulatory requirements and safety standards
Synthetic ropes imported into the EU are subject to REACH regarding chemical substances, particularly UV stabilisers and antistatic additives. The GPSR (EU) 2023/988 requires consumer product safety. Ropes intended for lifting must comply with the Machinery Regulation (EU) 2023/1230 and EN ISO 2307 for the determination of fibre rope strength. Climbing and sports ropes are subject to the PPE Regulation (EU) 2016/425 and require CE marking. Marine ropes should comply with classification society standards. Importers should hold documentation confirming compliance with the relevant standards.
Trade and import procedures
Importing synthetic ropes under CN code 560749 requires customs documentation including polymer composition, technical specification, and intended use. Major producers include China, India, Turkey, and European countries. Polyethylene and polypropylene as petrochemical raw materials are subject to price fluctuations linked to the oil market. Transport of ropes in coils or on reels requires protection against UV radiation, which degrades polymers. Preferential duty rates may be available under FTA agreements. Importers should check current rates in TARIC and verify whether anti-dumping measures apply to synthetic ropes.
Synthetic twine and rope CN 5607 49
CN code 5607 49 covers twine, rope and cordage of polyethylene or polypropylene other than binder twine. Synthetic ropes are lightweight, moisture-resistant and rot-proof. They are used in sailing, fishing, logistics and construction. When importing large quantities of synthetic ropes, potential anti-dumping measures on cordage from China should be checked.
Frequently asked questions
How to distinguish baler twine from rope under code 560749?
Baler twine has a separate CN code (560741) and is intended exclusively for agricultural use in harvesting machinery. Ropes under code 560749 are other twine, cordage, and ropes of polyethylene or polypropylene for general use. The intended use and technical specification determine the classification.
Do polypropylene lifting ropes require CE marking?
Ropes for lifting loads as machinery equipment components are subject to the Machinery Regulation (EU) 2023/1230. The manufacturer or importer must prepare an EC declaration of conformity and ensure compliance with EN ISO 2307. CE marking is required for finished slings and lifting accessories.
Are synthetic ropes subject to recycling requirements?
Polyethylene and polypropylene ropes as plastic products may be subject to future circular economy requirements. The SUP Directive does not cover industrial ropes, but ESPR regulations may in future impose recycling requirements. Importers should monitor legislative developments in this area.
Are synthetic ropes CN 5607 49 subject to EU anti-dumping?
Polyethylene/polypropylene ropes and twine may be subject to EU anti-dumping measures depending on the country of origin. Current measures should be checked in the TARIC system under CN code 5607 49.
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