56079000
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 (2)
Classification and product scope
CN code 560790 is a residual heading covering twine, cordage, and ropes of textile materials not covered by other subheadings within heading 5607. This primarily covers ropes of natural fibres other than sisal, manila, and jute, such as hemp, flax, cotton ropes, and ropes of fibre blends. Hemp ropes are valued for their exceptional strength and weather resistance. Classification under this code requires exclusion of fibres covered by other subheadings and confirmation of material composition through laboratory testing or manufacturer certificate.
Regulatory requirements and compliance
Ropes and twine under CN code 560790 are subject to the Textile Regulation (EU) No 1007/2011 for fibre composition labelling. REACH restricts chemical substances used in production and impregnation, such as preservatives and creosote-based impregnants. Marine ropes should comply with EN ISO 1181 or EN ISO 1346. Lifting ropes are subject to the Machinery Directive. The GPSR requires general product safety. For ropes of industrial hemp, THC limit regulations apply.
Trade practice and import
Importing ropes under CN code 560790 requires precise customs documentation specifying the fibre type, rope construction, and intended use. Hemp and flax ropes are produced in European countries, particularly Poland, France, and the Baltic states, as well as in China and India. Transport requires protection against moisture, which can cause natural fibre rot. Preferential duty rates may be available under FTA agreements. Importers should verify current rates in TARIC and ensure documentation is complete.
Other twine, rope and cordage CN 5607 90
CN code 5607 90 covers twine, rope and cordage of fibres not listed in other subheadings – e.g. cotton, linen, hemp or blends. Natural ropes are used in traditional sailing, gardening and interior decoration. When importing, check whether hemp fibre comes from Cannabis sativa varieties subject to narcotics regulations.
Frequently asked questions
Do hemp ropes from Poland qualify as Union goods?
Yes. Hemp ropes produced in Poland from EU-sourced raw materials are Union goods and are not subject to duty in intra-EU trade. When exported outside the EU, they may be subject to controls regarding hemp regulations, particularly the THC limit in hemp raw material.
Which standards apply to natural fibre ropes for marine applications?
Natural fibre ropes for marine use should comply with EN ISO 1181 specifying requirements for natural fibre ropes and EN ISO 1346 on rope identification. These standards define strength parameters, test methods, and labelling requirements for marine ropes.
Are ropes of natural and synthetic fibre blends classified under 560790?
The predominant fibre by weight determines the classification. If a natural fibre not covered by other subheadings predominates, code 560790 applies. If synthetic fibre predominates, codes 560711-560750 apply. Composition should be confirmed by laboratory testing indicating the percentage share of each component.
Are hemp ropes classified under CN 5607 90?
Yes, ropes of fibre hemp (Cannabis sativa L. industrial varieties with THC<0.3%) are classified under CN 5607 90. Importing fibre hemp requires varietal confirmation and a THC certificate.
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