China to European Union Trade Guide

Trade Relationship Overview

The EU and China do not have a free trade agreement, so China-origin goods enter the EU under standard MFN tariff rates — generally lower than US Section 301-affected rates, but the EU has its own significant tariff risk: an extensive and active anti-dumping (AD) and countervailing duty (CVD) regime covering dozens of Chinese product categories.

Unlike the politically-driven Section 301 tariffs in the US, EU AD/CVD duties result from formal investigations into specific pricing practices, and they can be extraordinarily high — sometimes exceeding 100% on top of the standard MFN rate for the affected HS codes.

Standard MFN Rates by Category

Category	HS Chapter	EU MFN Rate	AD/CVD Risk
Electronics	84–85	0–4%	Low
Textiles & Apparel	61–62	8–12%	Moderate
Steel Products	72–73	0–4%	High — multiple active AD cases
Ceramics & Tiles	69	5–7%	High — active AD duties up to 69%
Solar Panels	85	0%	Historic AD/CVD case, partially resolved
E-Bikes	87	6%	Active AD duties up to 79%

🚨 Check for Active AD/CVD Measures Before Sourcing

The EU maintains an extensive database of active anti-dumping and countervailing duty measures against Chinese imports, covering ceramics, steel, aluminum, e-bikes, and various chemical products. Always check the EU's TARIC database for your specific HS code before finalizing pricing — an undisclosed AD duty can turn a profitable import into a significant loss.

Required Documents

Commercial Invoice & Packing List

Standard documentation with accurate value declaration.

Bill of Lading

From the ocean carrier.

EORI Number (EU importer)

Required for the EU-based importer to clear customs.

AD/CVD Exemption Documentation (if applicable)

Some specific manufacturers have individual lower duty rates if named in the EU regulation — verify your supplier's status.

CE Marking / Compliance Certificates

Required for electronics, machinery, toys, and many consumer goods categories.

How to Check for Active AD/CVD Measures

Identify your product's exact HS code (6-10 digits)
Search the EU's TARIC database for your HS code combined with China as country of origin
Check for any "additional duty" or "anti-dumping" line items beyond the standard MFN rate
If a measure exists, check if your specific manufacturer is named with an individual rate, or falls under the general "all other companies" rate (often the highest)
Factor the full AD/CVD rate into your landed cost calculation — these duties are not always temporary and can run for 5+ years

Common HS Codes for This Route

6911.10 Ceramic Tableware 36–58%

8714.91 E-Bike Parts up to 79%

7306.61 Steel Tubes varies

8517.13 Smartphones 0%

6109.10 Cotton T-Shirts 12%

For a complete classification lookup, use our HS Code Lookup tool.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are EU tariffs on China as high as US Section 301?

Generally no — standard MFN rates between China and the EU are usually lower than US rates with Section 301 included. However, specific product categories under active AD/CVD measures can face very high additional duties, sometimes exceeding US rates for those specific goods.

How do I know if my product has an anti-dumping duty?

Check the EU's TARIC database using your HS code and China as country of origin. AD/CVD measures are listed as additional duty codes beyond the standard MFN rate.

Can anti-dumping duties change after I've already priced my product?

Yes. AD/CVD measures are reviewed periodically (typically every 5 years) and rates can change, new measures can be introduced, or existing ones extended or lifted. Monitor official EU trade notices for your product category.

Calculate your exact costs for this route

Enter your product details to get a full tariff and landed cost breakdown for China → European Union shipments.

🎯 Tariff Impact Calculator 🚢 Landed Cost Calculator