Electronics is one of the most imported product groups in China. The demand for electrical and electrical appliances is constantly high and the duty rates for such products are extremely low. Both factors make the importation of this type of goods a beneficial idea for a business. We present everything you need to know about importing electronic products from China to the EU. Check the tariff rates and the obligations of importers.
Electronics production areas in China
Finding a Chinese supplier can seem like a challenging task at first. However, if you want to make it easier, check the production areas of the product beforehand. When it comes to electronics, most of these devices are manufactured in Guangdong province. Shenzhen accumulates many specialized companies in its production. In this province, you can also take a look at the Dongguan city offers. The smallest but also important electronics manufacturing areas are Zhejiang, Jiangsu and Fujian provinces. Be sure to check out what Shanghai has to offer in this industry.
Importation of electronic products from China to the EU: duty rates
Before organizing the import, it is essential to check the tariff rates imposed on the chosen merchandise. The TARIC System contains rates for almost all types of products. Duty rates for items imported from China into the EU are shown in the row “ERGA OMNES”. There you will also find the HS codes, which are necessary for customs clearance.
All types of electronic devices are found in Section XVI “Machinery and mechanical devices; electrical equipment and its parts; sound recorders and reproducers, television image and sound recorders and reproducers, and their parts and accessories ”. Below we have compiled a fee schedule for some of the electronics:
* Telephones for cellular networks or other wireless networks (8517120000) – 0%
* Portable automatic data processing machines, with a maximum weight of 10 kg, consisting of at least one central processing unit, one keyboard and one display (8471300000) – 0%
* Keyboard (8471606000) – 0%
* Machines for the reception, conversion and transmission or regeneration of voice, images or other data, including switching and routing apparatus (8517620000) – 0%
* Laptops (8471900000) – 0%
* Electronic assemblies (8473302000) – 0%
* Headphones and earphones (8518300090) – 0%
* Shavers, clippers and epilators, with autonomous electric motor (8510100000) – 2.2%
As you can see, customs fees for electronics are particularly low and are usually 0%. It means that importing such devices can be beneficial. However, it is important to note that such products must meet the mandatory requirements for import into the European Union. Therefore, it is essential to familiarize yourself with them first.
Requirements to import electronic products from China to the EU
All electronic and electrical devices must have a CE mark. It is mandatory to import these products into the European Union and sell them on your market. Products must be tested to verify that they meet the correct regulations to obtain the marking. The New Approach Directives regulate several products imported into the EU. After the test, you will receive a document – test reports, which allow a certification body to issue a CE certificate. These two documents allow the manufacturer to issue a Declaration of Conformity and affix the CE mark to each product.
What directives are relevant for electronics?
Restriction of Hazardous Substances Directive (RoHS)
The main premise of the RoHS Directive is to prevent the risks they pose to human health and the natural environment caused by the management of electrical and electronic waste. Regulates the acceptable contents of dangerous substances.
The Low Voltage Directive (LVD)
Some of the devices must comply with the LVD Directive. It applies to electronic equipment operating in the voltage range of 50-1000V alternating current and 75-1500V direct current.
Electronic Compatibility Directive (EMC)
The EMC Directive refers to the electromagnetic compatibility of electronics. It means that it applies to all devices that contain active electronic and electrical components.
Radio Equipment Directive (RED)
If you are interested in importing radio equipment, you should familiarize yourself with the RED Directive. It establishes requirements for health and safety, electromagnetic compatibility and efficient use of the radio spectrum.
Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive
The WEEE Directive aims to prevent the generation of waste electrical and electronic equipment. Its objective is to minimize the impact of such wastes on the natural environment. According to its regulations, all electrical and electronic devices must therefore have a WEEE symbol. It means that said product must be delivered to a WEEE collection point. Delivery of waste equipment to a designated collection point for recycling is the responsibility of the user.
Electronics trade shows in China
There are two possible ways to find a Chinese supplier. You can search for them on B2B sites, for example, Alibaba, Made-in-China, or attend a trade show in China. While online shopping services allow you to search for deals without the need to plan a trip to China, trade shows will give you a completely different experience. There you can check the quality of the products on the spot, speak with the suppliers in person, and get your questions answered immediately. It is also an excellent opportunity to negotiate.
Check out our list of electronics trade shows in China.
CHINA LED
Location: Shanghai New International Exhibition Center (SNIEC)
China Import and Export Fair – Phase 1
Location: China Import and Export Fair (Canton Fair Complex)
Elexcon
Location: Shenzhen World Exhibition & Convention Center
China Electronics Fair (CEF)
Location: Shanghai New International Exhibition Center (SNIEC)
C-Touch and Shenzhen display
Location: Shenzhen Convention and Exhibition Center
Chinese Electronics
Location: Shanghai New International Exhibition Center (SNIEC)
World Exhibition of Household Appliances and Electronics
Location: National Exhibition and Convention Center
Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Autumn Edition)
Location: Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Center
China Yiwu Hardware and Electrical Expo
Location: Yiwu International Exhibition Center
International sign and LED exhibition
Location: Shenzhen World Exhibition & Convention Center
Summary
Due to low customs fees for electronics and persistent demand for such products, importing them can be profitable for you. Electronic devices are China’s main export product group. Therefore, it is worth checking the offers of Chinese suppliers.