The Explanatory Notes to the Combined Nomenclature of the European Union have been amended

The EU updated its CN Explanatory Notes on January 30, 2025 (C/2025/780), clarifying the classification of nonwoven fabrics under heading 5603 and spunlace surgical gowns under CN code 6210 10 92. The changes confirm that spunlace nonwovens remain under 5603 and explicitly include spunlace surgical gowns in 6210 10 92.

🔑 Key Updates in the 2025 CN Explanatory Notes
5603 Nonwoven Fabrics
•    Products made of textile fibers combined with cellulose fibers using the spunlace/hydroentangling method remain classified under CN heading 5603.
•    Even if one side of the product shows a more dominant nonwoven structure and the other side highlights cellulose fibers, the classification does not change.
•    Cellulose fibers do not alter the essential character of the product; therefore, these items continue to fall under 5603.
6210 10 92 Surgical Gowns
•    The scope of CN subheading 6210 10 92 has been expanded.
•    Spunlace surgical gowns produced by combining nonwoven fabrics with cellulose fibers through hydroentangling are now explicitly included.
•    The presence of polyester reinforcement on the inner side does not affect classification; such gowns remain under 6210 10 92.
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📌 Why This Matters
•    Trade Compliance: Importers and exporters must align declarations with the updated explanatory notes to avoid misclassification.
•    Cost Impact: Correct CN/GTIP classification directly affects duties, tariffs, and compliance costs.
•    Product Scope: Firms dealing with nonwoven fabrics and surgical gowns must carefully document production methods (e.g., spunlace) in customs filings.
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✅ Practical Guidance for Companies
•    Review product specifications: confirm if spunlace/hydroentangling is used.
•    Update customs declarations to reflect 5603 for nonwoven fabrics and 6210 10 92 for spunlace surgical gowns.
•    Monitor further EU updates to CN Explanatory Notes, as classification rules evolve with new production technologies.
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📄 Reference: EU Official Journal, Notice C/2025/780 (30 January 2025).