China New 13-digit HS code Structure Introduction

The Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System, also known as the Harmonized System (HS) of tariff nomenclature is an internationally-standardized system of names and numbers to classify traded products. It came into effect in 1988 and has since been developed and maintained by the World Customs Organization (WCO) (formerly the Customs Co-operation Council), an independent intergovernmental organization based in Brussels, Belgium, with over 200 member countries.

There are 8~12 digit numbers of a full code. To ensure harmonization, the contracting parties must employ at least 4-digit and 6-digit provisions, international rules and notes, but are free to adopt additional subcategories and notes.

China joined the HS Harmonized System on January 1, 1992, at present, China is using 10 digits HS code;

From August 1, 2018, the China Customs Commodity HS Code has been changed from the original 10-digit HS code to the new 13-digit HS code ; the first 8-digit is the Commodity HS code of "Import and Export Tariff of the People's Republic of China" ; 9, 10 digit are customs supervisory additional numbers, and 11-13 are additional numbers for inspection and quarantine.

When the goods import into China Port, Before China Customs declaration,the most important first step is goods HS classification,

Only after the goods HS classification, then can determine the below items for this commodity:
1. Determine the tariff type (such as import duties, value-added tax, consumption tax etc.) and rate for this commodity;
2. Determine the china customs declaration process for this commodity,
3. Determine the CIQ inspection and quarantine supervision requirements for this commodity,
4. Determine the regulatory authorities pre-market approval requirements for this commodity etc.