Question 1

What is the EU Common Customs Tariff (TARIC)?

Accepted Answer

The EU Common Customs Tariff (CCT) applies to all goods imported into the European Union from non-EU countries. It is based on the international Harmonized System (HS) and consists of 8-digit CN (Combined Nomenclature) codes, with TARIC adding further 10-digit subdivisions for specific measures like anti-dumping, preferences, and prohibitions. All EU member states apply identical rates at the external border.

Question 2

What is CBAM and which products does it cover?

Accepted Answer

The Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) is an EU carbon pricing instrument for imports. From 2026, importers must buy CBAM certificates corresponding to the carbon price that would have been paid under EU carbon pricing rules. It currently covers cement, iron and steel, aluminium, fertilisers, electricity, and hydrogen. CBAM certificates are priced weekly based on the EU ETS carbon price.

Question 3

How do EU preferential trade agreements work?

Accepted Answer

The EU has trade agreements with over 70 countries providing reduced or zero tariff rates. These include CETA (Canada), EPA agreements (Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Vietnam), and GSP for developing countries. To benefit, goods must meet rules of origin requirements and be accompanied by proof of origin documentation (e.g., EUR.1, origin declaration, REX).

Question 4

What is the difference between MFN and preferential duty rates?

Accepted Answer

The MFN (Most Favoured Nation) rate is the standard rate applied to all WTO members. Preferential rates are lower rates available to countries with which the EU has a trade agreement. For example, goods from Japan may qualify for 0% instead of the standard 6% MFN rate under the EU-Japan EPA, provided rules of origin are satisfied.

Question 5

What are EU anti-dumping duties?

Accepted Answer

Anti-dumping (AD) duties are imposed by the EU on imports sold at unfairly low prices that harm EU industry. They are product- and country-specific and stack on top of MFN duties. Common examples include steel products from China, solar panels, and certain chemicals. Rates are set by EU regulation and reviewed periodically.

Question 6

What is an HTS code?

Accepted Answer

An HTS (Harmonized Tariff Schedule) code is a 10-digit classification number used by US Customs and Border Protection to identify imported goods and determine applicable duty rates. The first 6 digits are standardized internationally under the Harmonized System, while the last 4 digits are specific to the United States.

Question 7

How are US tariff rates determined?

Accepted Answer

US tariff rates are set by Congress and administered by CBP. The base MFN (Most Favored Nation) rate applies to most trading partners. Additional special tariffs — such as Section 301 (China), Section 232 (steel and aluminum), and Section 122 (temporary global surcharge, 10–15% per Proclamation 11012) — may apply on top of the base rate. Note that Section 122 does not stack with Section 232: goods already subject to §232 actions are excluded from the §122 surcharge.

Question 8

What are Section 301 tariffs?

Accepted Answer

Section 301 tariffs are additional duties imposed on Chinese goods under the Trade Act of 1974, in response to unfair trade practices. They range from 7.5% to 100% depending on the product category and apply on top of the standard MFN duty rate. Four separate lists cover approximately $370 billion of annual imports.

Question 9

How do I find the tariff rate for my product?

Accepted Answer

Use the search bar on this site to describe your product in plain English — our AI identifies the correct HTS code and shows all applicable duty rates including base MFN, Section 301, Section 232, and any other overlays. You can also browse by HTS chapter or product category.

Question 10

What is a landed cost?

Accepted Answer

Landed cost is the total cost of importing a product to its destination, including the product price (FOB), ocean or air freight, insurance, US Customs duties, Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF), Harbor Maintenance Fee (HMF), and any other applicable surcharges. It represents the true cost of an imported good before domestic distribution.

EU Tariff FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

EU Tariff FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions