New version of Harmonized Tariff Schedule - Version 2022

In January 2022, the WCO will launch the newest version of the Harmonized Tariff. Every five years the Harmonized system is reviewed and modified to take into account technology advances, new popular products that do not readily fit into their own heading and assisting countries to better measure their trade statistics.

This year there has been a great focus on ecological concerns and products designed to detect or tackle viruses.

HS 2022 is the seventh edition of the Harmonized System, here are some of the highlights:

Codes added or adapted to take into account new products (not an exhaustive list)

• New provision for novel tobacco and nicotine products – these products are difficult to classify
• Specific code covering Unmanned Ariel Vehicles (UAVs) or drones
• Smart phones will gain their own heading – these items have multiple functions therefore a separate classification was required.
• Flat panel display modules will be classified as a product in their own right and removing the need to identify its final use
• The recognition of the dangers of delays in the deployment of tools for the rapid diagnosis of infectious diseases in outbreaks has led to changes to the provisions for such diagnostic kits to simplify classification
• New provisions for placebos and clinical trial kits for medical research to enable classification without information on the ingredients in a placebo will assist in facilitating cross-border medical research
• New provisions specifically to provide for various dual use items. These range from toxins to laboratory equipment

Addressing environmental and social issues of global concern

• Classifications covering e-waste such as electrical and electronic waste

Reconfiguring of certain sub-headings to take into account technical advances enabling the trade statistics to be better measured

• Under subheading 7019 Glass Fibre
• 8462 metal forming machinery

Link to the WCO document outlining the amendments available here

EU 385/2021 containing the 2022 tariffs here

Crane Trade Services can assist you with questions regarding this matter.  For assistance please contact CWTSConsulting@craneww.com.