New EU Import Regulations for Steel and Metal Products: What Importers Need to Know
The European Union has introduced new regulations concerning the import of steel and metal products from third countries. These changes primarily target the indirect import of goods originating from Russia. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help importers understand the new rules and how to comply.
1. The Objective of the New Regulations
The EU aims to further restrict imports from Russia. This includes:
- Direct imports from Russia.
- Goods that have been processed in a third country using raw materials from Russia.
- End products made from Russian raw materials but imported from another third country.
2. Products Affected
The regulations specifically target iron and steel products. A detailed list of products, identified by their customs tariff numbers, can be found in the Annex XVII. Some examples include:
- Iron and non-alloy steel in ingots.
- Flat-rolled products of iron or non-alloy steel.
- Bars and rods of iron or non-alloy steel.
- Tubes, pipes, and hollow profiles of iron or steel.
- And many more.
3. Proof of Origin
Importers must provide evidence of the origin of the iron and steel raw materials used in the products they’re importing. This is to ensure that the goods do not have Russian origins. Suitable proof can include:
- Mill Test Certificates.
- Invoices.
- Delivery notes.
- Quality certificates.
- Long-term supplier declarations.
- Production descriptions.
- Manufacturer’s statements.
- Exclusion clauses in purchase contracts.
- And more.
When declaring to customs, the code Y824 should be used to indicate the presence of this proof.
4. Exceptions and Import Permits
There are exceptions where an import permit can be obtained from the BAFA (Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control). This permit can be granted under specific conditions, such as:
- For the establishment and operation of civil nuclear capacities.
- Maintenance of nuclear capacities.
- Supply and reprocessing of fuel elements.
- Continuation of planning, construction, and acceptance tests for the commissioning of civil nuclear facilities.
- Supply of raw materials for the production of medical radioisotopes.
- And more.
5. Recommendations for Importers
Customs offices will conduct random checks. To avoid delays:
- Ensure suppliers provide “Material Certification Reports” detailing the components and compositions of the goods, confirming they are not of Russian origin.
- A mere note on the commercial invoice or a separate statement is insufficient.
- A Certificate of Origin is also not adequate as it pertains to the finished product and not the raw materials.
6. System Rejections
From 30th September 2023, if the required documents are not provided during import declarations, the system will automatically reject the application. This could potentially affect quota allocations.
7. Official Resources
For more detailed information and specific documents related to the import ban on iron and steel products, you can visit the official customs website: www.zoll.de.
Conclusion
The new regulations emphasize the importance of transparency and traceability in the supply chain. Importers are advised to communicate with their suppliers, ensure all required documentation is in place, and stay updated with any further changes to EU regulations.
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