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90

Tariff Chapter 90

Lenses, prisms, mirrors and other optical elements, of any material, mounted, being parts of or fittings for instruments or apparatus, other than such elements of glass not optically worked

What does heading 9002 of the customs tariff cover?

Heading 9002 covers mounted lenses, prisms, mirrors and other optical elements for instruments or apparatus. These products are used in science, industry, medicine and navigation. Chapter 90 covers some of the most technologically advanced products in international trade. EU duty rates typically range from 0% to 4.2% depending on the instrument type. Many scientific and measuring instruments benefit from 0% under the ITA or duty suspensions. CE marking and compliance with relevant EU directives are required. Heading 9002 is part of Chapter 90 (optical, medical, measuring and musical instruments) 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 9002 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 9002 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 9002

EU duty rates typically range from 0% to 4.2% depending on the instrument type. Many scientific and measuring instruments benefit from 0% under the ITA or duty suspensions. CE marking and compliance with relevant EU directives are required. Duty rates range from 0% to 4.2% depending on instrument type. Many scientific instruments benefit from 0% under ITA or duty suspensions. CE marking and relevant directive compliance are required. Ensure proper transport conditions when importing precision instruments. When importing goods under heading 9002 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 9002 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). Goods under heading 9002 are subject to CE, MDR (medical devices) and MID (measuring instruments) compliance. Required documentation includes: CE certificates, MDR/IVDR conformity declarations, measuring instrument calibration. In addition to customs duty, imports are subject to VAT at the rate applicable in the country of destination. The VAT taxable amount at import is the customs value plus duty and any countervailing or anti-dumping duties. The importer must file an electronic customs declaration in the national import system.

Classification of goods under heading 9002 — key considerations

Heading 9002 covers lenses, prisms, mirrors, and other optical elements MOUNTED, being parts of instruments. Key: optical element with mounting — ready for instrument assembly. Includes photographic lenses and mounted optical filters. Common mistake: unmounted elements are 9001; complete optical devices are 9005-9013.

Frequently asked questions

What are the EU customs duty rates for mounted optical elements under heading 9002?
Customs duty rates for mounted lenses, prisms, mirrors, and other optical elements for instruments or apparatus under heading 9002 range from 0% to 6.7% depending on the instrument type. Objectives for cameras and projectors attract a 6.7% rate, while many other mounted optical elements benefit from a 0% rate under the ITA or EU duty suspensions. Classification requires confirming that the element is mounted (as opposed to unmounted elements of heading 9001) and intended for a specific optical instrument or apparatus. 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 for importing mounted optical elements?
Importing mounted optical elements requires a customs declaration with CN code (heading 9002), a commercial invoice with detailed technical description (element type, optical material, mounting, intended use), certificate of origin, and compliance documentation with EU directives. Elements for medical apparatus are subject to Medical Device Regulation (MDR). Elements for measuring apparatus may require calibration and metrological certificates. CE marking is required per applicable directives. 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 to mounted optical element imports — classification and quality?
Correct distinction between mounted optical elements (9002), unmounted elements (9001), and complete optical instruments (headings 9003-9033) is essential. Mounted elements require careful packaging protecting both optical components and mountings from damage. Customs inspection verifies optical specifications, mounting material, and intended use. Elements for military or dual-use applications may require export licences. Transport must ensure temperature and humidity control for precision optics. Current duty rates should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database. Classification follows the Combined Nomenclature (CN) of the European Union.