The European Union (EU), which comprises 27 countries, is a high importer of textile products. The high demand for fabrics in the region can be attributed to factors such as the high design levels and strong fashion brands within the union.
Such factors create the need for a continuous flow of textile goods through importation, especially raw materials.
Classification of Textile Goods in the EU
All textile products entering the EU are classified under a tariff code that carries key details such as duty rates and other levies.
Unlike the classification system in other countries, the EU classification system has three parts:
- The Harmonized System- Derived from the World Customs Organization
- The Combined Nomenclature- Used to add EU-specific codes
- Integrated Tariff (TARIC)- Offers information on trade policy and tariff measures
Calculation of Import Duties in the EU
When calculating customs duty, the EU puts into consideration three main factors;
Value of Goods
The tariff rates indicated for each line of textile products in the TARIC are per a defined unit. Thus, you will be required to pay more if the number of units that make up your goods is high.
The Applicable Customs Tariff
Each textile product line has a specific tariff rate, which mostly ranges between 0-8%. This is what the government of the country you are importing use to calculate the import duty.
The Origin of the Fabric
The EU has rules of origin that influence the customs duty for imported textile goods. The rules are used to establish and authenticate the nationality of the products.
The union states that a product is considered as originating from a given country only if it was wholly obtained or sufficiently processed there.
Fabric Import Duty in the EU for Selected Goods
Here are the customs duty rates for selected textile products you can import into the EU. Detailed information on all textile and textile articles, including their codes, can be found on the official website of the EU.
Summary
The EU offers a ready market for fabric. However, before trading with any of the 27 countries that form the union, familiarize yourself with the applicable import duty. The rates for all fabric lines are well-defined by the Integrated Tariff of the European Communities (TARIC).
