3907 61Select TARIC subcode
Poly(ethylene terephthalate) - Having a viscosity number of 78 ml/g or higher
Available TARIC subcodes: 2
Product characteristics and tariff classification
CN code 390761 covers polyethylene terephthalate (PET) having a viscosity number of 78 ml/g or more, in primary forms. PET is a semi-crystalline thermoplastic polyester obtained by polycondensation of terephthalic acid with ethylene glycol. High-viscosity PET (IV above 0.72 dl/g, corresponding to viscosity number 78 ml/g) is intended primarily for bottle and packaging production by injection stretch blow moulding. PET is one of the most important packaging polymers globally. Products come as granules or preforms. The viscosity number is key for classification, distinguishing bottle-grade PET (code 390761) from lower-viscosity PET (code 390769).
Regulatory requirements and recycling
Importing PET into the EU is subject to REACH regarding monomers and additives. Food-contact PET must comply with Regulation (EU) No 10/2011. Recycled PET (rPET) for food contact is subject to Regulation (EU) 2022/1616 on recycled plastics for food contact, requiring recycling process authorisation by EFSA. The SUP Directive (EU) 2019/904 mandates minimum rPET content in bottles (25 percent by 2025, 30 percent by 2030). The Packaging Directive requires selective collection systems for PET bottles. Importers should consider EPR obligations in the destination member state.
Trade and customs procedures
When importing PET under CN code 390761, customs documentation should include a specification with viscosity number (IV), residual acetaldehyde content, colour and commercial form. Duty rates should be verified in the TARIC system. Bottle-grade PET is the subject of intensive international trade with production exceeding 30 million tonnes annually. Major producers include Indorama, Far Eastern New Century, Alpek, Lotte Chemical and DAK Americas. PET imports into the EU may be subject to anti-dumping duties from certain countries – current measures should be checked in TARIC.
Frequently asked questions
What does a viscosity number of 78 ml/g mean for PET?
A viscosity number of 78 ml/g (corresponding to intrinsic viscosity IV of approximately 0.72 dl/g) is the threshold distinguishing bottle-grade PET (code 390761) from lower-viscosity PET (code 390769). Higher-viscosity PET has longer polymer chains providing mechanical strength necessary for bottle production by injection stretch blow moulding.
Are anti-dumping duties applicable to PET imports into the EU?
The status of anti-dumping duties on PET changes depending on European Commission decisions. Anti-dumping duties on PET have been imposed on imports from several countries. It is recommended to check current measures in the TARIC or ISZTAR system for the specific country of origin before importing.
Does recycled PET (rPET) have a different CN code?
No. Recycled PET regranulate is classified under the same code 390761 (if IV above 78 ml/g) or 390769 (if IV below). Differences concern regulatory requirements – rPET for food contact requires recycling process authorisation under Regulation (EU) 2022/1616.