56081100
WADDING, FELT AND NONWOVENS; SPECIAL YARNS; TWINE, CORDAGE, ROPES AND CABLES AND ARTICLES THEREOF›Knotted netting of twine, cordage or rope; made-up fishing nets and other made-up nets, of textile materials
Of man-made textile materials - Made-up fishing nets
Tariff classification and characteristics
CN code 560811 covers made-up fishing nets of synthetic man-made textile yarns. These nets are a primary fishing tool used in marine and inland fisheries. They are mainly manufactured from nylon (polyamide), polyethylene, and polyester, offering strength, rot resistance, and low water absorption. Customs classification requires confirmation that the product constitutes a ready-made fishing net, rather than merely netting or net material without a fishing application. Customs documentation should indicate the net type (trawl, gill, cast), mesh size, and fibre composition.
Regulatory requirements and fisheries regulations
Fishing nets imported into the EU are subject to REACH regarding chemical substances in synthetic materials. Mesh size requirements are regulated by the EU Common Fisheries Policy and the technical measures regulation (EU) 2019/1241, which specifies minimum mesh sizes for specific species and waters. Import of fishing nets from third countries is also subject to the IUU Regulation (EC) No 1005/2008 combating illegal fishing. The GPSR applies to nets intended for recreational fishing. Importers should verify compliance with minimum mesh regulations applicable in the target fishing area.
Trade and import procedures
Importing fishing nets under CN code 560811 requires customs documentation specifying the net type, mesh size, material, and intended use. Major producers include China, India, Vietnam, South Korea, and the Philippines. The EU is one of the world's largest importers of fishing nets. Tariff preferences may apply for imports from ACP countries and developing nations. Transport of nets requires protection against moisture and UV radiation. Importers should check TARIC for any anti-dumping duties on nets from specific countries.
Synthetic fishing nets CN 5608 11 – import and regulations
CN code 5608 11 covers made-up fishing nets of synthetic textile materials (nylon, polyester, polyethylene). Fishing nets are subject to EU Common Fisheries Policy regulations on mesh sizes and permitted materials in various waters. Import must also consider net recycling regulations and microplastics restrictions. Drift nets are prohibited.
Frequently asked questions
What minimum mesh sizes apply to EU fishing nets?
Minimum mesh sizes are defined by Regulation (EU) 2019/1241 and depend on the fish species and fishing region. For example, in the Baltic Sea, the minimum mesh for cod is 120 mm in trawl nets. Importing nets with mesh sizes non-compliant with regulations may result in customs authorities refusing to release the goods.
Are fishing nets subject to IUU regulations?
The IUU Regulation (EC) No 1005/2008 primarily concerns fishery products, not nets as fishing tools. However, importing nets from countries subject to IUU sanctions may trigger additional customs controls. Importers should verify the IUU status of the producer country in the European Commission registry.
Do recycled fishing nets have additional requirements?
Fishing nets of recycled nylon are classified under the same CN code 560811. They are not subject to additional regulatory requirements solely due to recycled origin. However, claims regarding recycled content must be verifiable and compliant with the Green Claims Directive.
What EU regulations apply to fishing net imports CN 5608 11?
CN 5608 11 net imports are subject to EU CFP regulations (mesh sizes, permitted materials), SUP Directive (single-use plastics – extended producer responsibility) and REACH. Nets must meet EU environmental standards.
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