Importing ceramic tableware, porcelain figurines, glass bottles, or decorative glassware from China requires a clear understanding of applicable tariffs. Whether you are an ecommerce retailer or a wholesale distributor, knowing the customs duties for ceramic and glass products from China is essential for accurate cost forecasting and compliance. Different product types fall under distinct Harmonized System (HS) codes, each with its own duty rate, and the customs duties for ceramic and glass products from China can vary significantly depending on material composition, manufacturing method, and destination country. This guide provides a comprehensive breakdown of HS code classifications, duty rates for the United States and European Union, anti-dumping measures, calculation methods, and practical strategies to reduce your overall import costs.

Introduction

China is the world’s largest exporter of ceramic and glass products, supplying fine bone china dinner sets to industrial glass sheets and hand-blown decorative vases. In 2024, China’s ceramic and glass exports exceeded USD 60 billion, with the US and EU as the largest markets. However, navigating tariffs for these products is challenging, as duty rates are highly specific to product type and raw materials.

Importers often underestimate how duties and fees add to landed costs. A seemingly low base duty rate of 3–8% can balloon to 20–30% or more when anti-dumping duties, VAT, and other surcharges are factored in. This article covers HS code classification, duty rates for ceramic and glass products in the US and EU, anti-dumping measures, calculation methods, and actionable tips to minimize your duty burden.

HS Code Classification for Ceramics and Glass

The Harmonized System (HS) is the global standard for classifying traded products. Ceramic and glass products fall primarily under Chapter 69 (Ceramic Products) and Chapter 70 (Glass and Glassware) of the HS nomenclature. Accurate classification is critical because even a slight difference in product description can result in a different duty rate.

Chapter 69: Ceramic Products

HS Chapter 69 covers ceramic goods made from baked clay or other inorganic non-metallic materials. It is divided into two main sub-sections:

• Heading 6911 – Tableware, kitchenware, and other household articles of porcelain or china: This includes plates, cups, saucers, bowls, teapots, and decorative porcelain items. These products typically attract higher duties due to their refined nature.
• Heading 6912 – Ceramic tableware, kitchenware, and other household articles (other than porcelain): This covers stoneware, earthenware, and fine pottery items. Common examples include stoneware dinner sets, earthenware mugs, and terracotta cookware.
• Heading 6913 – Statuettes and other ornamental ceramic articles: Decorative ceramic figurines, vases, and wall plaques fall under this heading.
• Heading 6907 – Unglazed and glazed ceramic flags, paving, and wall tiles: Construction-grade ceramic tiles used for flooring and wall cladding.
• Heading 6909 – Ceramic wares for laboratory, chemical, and industrial uses: Includes crucibles, mortars, and ceramic lab equipment.

Within each heading, further subheadings refine the classification by manufacturing method (e.g., whether the item is glazed or unglazed), intended use, and material composition.

Chapter 70: Glass and Glassware

HS Chapter 70 covers all glass products, ranging from raw glass sheets to finished glassware. Key headings include:

• Heading 7007 – Safety glass: Laminated or tempered glass used in automotive, architectural, and electronic applications.
• Heading 7010 – Glass containers for packaging: Bottles, jars, ampoules, and other containers used for beverages, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics.
• Heading 7013 – Glassware for table, kitchen, toilet, or ornamental purposes: Drinking glasses, serving bowls, decorative glass figurines, and vases. This heading is the most relevant for consumer goods importers.
• Heading 7016 – Glass paving blocks, bricks, and multicellular glass: Used in construction and insulation.
• Heading 7020 – Other articles of glass: A catch-all category for glass products not covered elsewhere, such as glass laboratory apparatus and glass signs.

Proper classification under the correct subheading—down to the 10-digit HS code level for the US (HTSUS) and 8-digit for the EU (TARIC)—is essential. Misclassification can lead to overpayment, delays, or even penalties during customs audits.

Duty Rates for Ceramic Products (US)

Duty rates for ceramic products imported into the United States are governed by the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS). Below are the general duty rates for common ceramic categories.

Porcelain and China Tableware (HS 6911)

• Dinnerware sets (6911.10.37, 6911.10.52): 8.0–12.0% ad valorem (percentage of the declared value)
• Porcelain cups and saucers (6911.10.38): 8.0%
• Porcelain teapots (6911.10.45): 8.0%
• Porcelain kitchenware (6911.10.80): 8.0%

Non-Porcelain Ceramic Tableware (HS 6912)

• Stoneware dinner sets (6912.00.39): 5.0–8.0%
• Earthenware plates and bowls (6912.00.41): 5.0%
• Fine pottery mugs (6912.00.44): 6.0%
• Terracotta cookware (6912.00.48): 5.0%

Ornamental Ceramic Articles (HS 6913)

• Porcelain statuettes and figurines (6913.10.10): Free (0%) under normal trade relations (NTR) status
• Non-porcelain ornamental articles (6913.90.50): 5.0%

Ceramic Tiles (HS 6907)

• Glazed ceramic tiles (6907.21.00): 5.0–8.0%
• Unglazed ceramic tiles (6907.10.00): 5.0%

Note: These are Most Favored Nation (MFN) / Normal Trade Relations (NTR) rates. Products from China are subject to these rates unless additional Section 301 tariffs (List 3 and List 4A) apply. As of 2025, many ceramic products from China face an additional 7.5–25% Section 301 tariff on top of the base rate.

Duty Rates for Ceramic Products (EU)

The European Union applies the Combined Nomenclature (CN) system. Duties are expressed as a percentage of the customs value (CIF — Cost, Insurance, Freight).

Porcelain and China Tableware (CN 6911)

• Porcelain dinnerware sets (6911.10.00): 8.0%
• Porcelain cups, saucers, and other tableware (6911.10.00): 8.0%
• Porcelain kitchenware (6911.10.00): 8.0%

Non-Porcelain Ceramic Tableware (CN 6912)

• Stoneware and earthenware tableware (6912.00.00): 8.0%
• Stoneware kitchenware (6912.00.00): 8.0%
• Fine pottery and terracotta articles (6912.00.00): 8.0%

Ornamental Ceramic Articles (CN 6913)

• Porcelain ornamental articles (6913.10.00): 5.0%
• Non-porcelain ornamental articles (6913.90.00): 5.0%

Ceramic Tiles (CN 6907)

• Glazed ceramic wall and floor tiles (6907.21.00): 5.0%
• Unglazed tiles (6907.10.00): 5.0%

Important: The EU does not currently apply across-the-board additional tariffs on Chinese products comparable to the US Section 301 tariffs. However, anti-dumping duties (discussed below) can substantially increase rates for specific ceramic product categories.

Duty Rates for Glass Products (US)

Glass products imported into the US are also covered by the HTSUS. Here are the rates for common glass categories.

Drinking Glasses and Glass Tableware (HS 7013)

• Hand-blown drinking glasses (7013.22.00): 5.0%
• Machine-made stemware (7013.28.00): 7.5%
• Glass serving bowls and platters (7013.42.00): 5.0%
• Decorative glass vases (7013.99.50): 5.0%

Glass Containers and Bottles (HS 7010)

• Glass bottles for beverages (7010.90.50): 5.0%
• Pharmaceutical glass containers (7010.90.20): Free (0%)
• Glass jars for food packaging (7010.90.50): 5.0%

Safety Glass (HS 7007)

• Laminated safety glass (7007.29.00): 4.0–5.0%
• Tempered safety glass (7007.19.00): 4.0–5.0%

As with ceramics, many glass products from China are also subject to Section 301 additional tariffs. Products under List 3 (USD 200 billion tranche) face a 25% additional duty; those under List 4A (USD 120 billion tranche) face 7.5%. Importers should always check the latest HTSUS Chapter 99 annotations for current Section 301 applicability.

Duty Rates for Glass Products (EU)

The EU’s duty rates for glass products under the CN system are generally lower than those for ceramics.

Drinking Glasses and Glass Tableware (CN 7013)

• Hand-blown lead crystal glasses (7013.22.00): 6.0%
• Machine-made drinking glasses (7013.28.00): 6.0%
• Glass serving bowls and decorative items (7013.42.00): 6.0%

Glass Containers and Bottles (CN 7010)

• Glass bottles for beverages (7010.90.10): 5.0%
• Pharmaceutical glass containers (7010.90.20): Free (0%)

Safety Glass (CN 7007)

• Laminated safety glass (7007.29.00): 4.0%
• Tempered safety glass (7007.19.00): 4.0%

The EU’s duty rates for glass are relatively low, making glass products from China competitively priced in the European market. However, as discussed in the next section, anti-dumping measures can override these base rates.

Anti-Dumping Duties on Ceramics

Anti-dumping (AD) duties are additional tariffs imposed when exporters sell products below domestic value, injuring the importing country’s industry. Ceramic products from China are frequent targets.

EU Anti-Dumping on Chinese Ceramic Tableware

In 2011, the EU imposed AD duties on Chinese ceramic tableware ranging from 13.1% to 36.1%, depending on the exporter. These were reviewed and extended. As of 2025, some Chinese exporters continue to face AD duties.

Products affected include porcelain dinner sets, stoneware mugs, and earthenware tableware. Importers should verify whether their specific supplier is subject to an active AD duty, which applies on top of the standard 8% CN tariff.

US Anti-Dumping on Chinese Ceramic Tiles

The US Department of Commerce imposed AD duties on Chinese ceramic tiles in 2020, with rates from 2.39% to 356.02%. Most exporters face 50–100%, significantly impacting the construction materials sector.

US Anti-Dumping on Chinese Glass Containers

The US has investigated Chinese glass containers for dumping. Importers should monitor the Federal Register for active AD orders.

How to Check for Anti-Dumping Coverage

• US: Use the USITC AD/CVD database or check the Federal Register.
• EU: Use the European Commission’s TARIC database for anti-dumping measures on specific CN codes.
• Partner with a sourcing agent to verify whether your supplier is subject to AD duties before ordering.

Value and Weight-Based Calculations

Customs duties for ceramic and glass products are typically calculated in one of two ways: ad valorem (percentage of value) or specific (fixed amount per unit or weight). Understanding these methods helps you accurately estimate your total import cost.

Ad Valorem Calculation

Most ceramic and glass products are subject to ad valorem duties. The formula is:

Duty = Customs Value × Duty Rate

For example, if you import porcelain dinnerware valued at USD 10,000 (CIF) into the US, and the combined base rate plus Section 301 tariff equals 28% (8% base + 20% Section 301):

Duty = USD 10,000 × 28% = USD 2,800

Specific Duty Calculation

Some products, particularly glass containers, may have a specific duty component based on weight or quantity. For instance, glass bottles might have a duty of USD 0.05 per dozen, plus an ad valorem component.

Mixed Calculation

In some cases, duties are calculated using both methods, and the higher amount applies. For example, a certain glass product might be subject to 5% ad valorem or USD 0.10 per kilogram, whichever is greater.

Landed Cost Formula

To calculate your true landed cost, include:

Landed Cost = Product Cost + Freight + Insurance + Customs Duty + Anti-Dumping Duty (if applicable) + VAT/GST + Customs Broker Fees + Port Handling Fees

For ceramic and glass products, which are heavy and fragile, freight and insurance costs can be significant. A USD 5,000 shipment of ceramic tiles may easily double in landed cost after all duties, freight, and fees are applied.

Additional Fees and Taxes

Beyond customs duties, importers must account for several other charges.

Value-Added Tax (VAT) — EU

The EU requires VAT on imported goods at entry. Rates vary by member state:

• Germany: 19%
• France: 20%
• Italy: 22%
• Spain: 21%
• Netherlands: 21%
• UK (non-EU): 20%

VAT is calculated on the CIF value plus customs duty. Example:

• CIF value: EUR 10,000
• Customs duty (8%): EUR 800
• Subtotal for VAT: EUR 10,800
• VAT at 20%: EUR 2,160
• Total import charges: EUR 2,960

Section 301 Tariffs — US

Many Chinese ceramic and glass products face additional Section 301 tariffs of 7.5% to 25% on top of the base duty rate.

Harbor Maintenance Fee (HMF) — US

The HMF is 0.125% of cargo value for ocean freight shipments entering US ports.

Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF) — US

The MPF is 0.3464% of declared value for formal entries, minimum USD 29.66, maximum USD 611.76 per entry.

Customs Broker Fees

Broker fees typically range from USD 100 to USD 300 per entry, depending on complexity.

Inspection and Certification Costs

Some ceramic and glass products require testing for destination country standards. FDA (US) requires lead and cadmium leaching limits for food-contact items; EU requires REACH and CE marking. Testing costs range from EUR 500 to EUR 3,000.

How to Reduce Duties

While you cannot eliminate customs duties entirely, several legitimate strategies can reduce your duty burden.

1. Correct HS Code Classification

The single most effective way to avoid overpaying duties is to ensure your products are classified under the correct HS code. For example:

• A decorative ceramic vase might be classified as ornamental ceramic (HS 6913) with a 5% duty rate rather than as ceramic tableware (HS 6912) at 8%.
• Hand-blown glass stemware (HS 7013.22) at 5% vs. machine-made stemware (HS 7013.28) at 7.5% — a difference of 2.5%.

A working relationship with a reliable China sourcing agent for cross border ecommerce can help verify that your supplier’s commercial invoice describes the product in a way that matches the most favorable legitimate classification.

2. Use Duty Drawback Programs

The US and EU both offer duty drawback programs that refund up to 99% of duties paid on imported goods that are later exported. If your business re-exports imported ceramic or glass products, this can significantly reduce your net duty cost.

3. Leverage Free Trade Agreements (FTAs)

While China is not in many FTAs with the US or EU, you can sometimes import raw materials from FTA partners and manufacture in China with preferential tariff treatment. This requires careful supply chain planning.

4. Optimize Shipment Value

Ensure your declared customs value is accurate and supported by documentation. Neither over-declaring nor under-declaring helps — over-declaration increases duty costs and under-declaration risks penalties.

5. Use a Sourcing Agent with Duty Expertise

Partnering with a Bulk product sourcing from China wholesale suppliers expert who understands tariff classification can save you thousands of dollars annually. A knowledgeable agent can review your product catalog, suggest classification improvements, and ensure your supplier documentation is compliant.

6. Reduce Shipping Costs

Since duties for ad valorem products are based on CIF value, reducing freight costs directly reduces the dutiable value. Consolidating shipments, negotiating better freight rates, or using slower (but cheaper) ocean freight can help.

7. Consider Reliable Manufacturing and Procurement Partner China

A China sourcing agent for cross border ecommerce can help you redesign packaging to reduce volumetric weight, source raw materials more efficiently, and ensure your supply chain documentation is fully compliant with customs requirements in your destination country.

Comparison Table: Duty Rates by Product Category

Note: Rates are approximate and subject to change. Always verify current rates using official customs databases before shipping.

Case Study: Glassware Importer Optimizes Duty Classification

Background: A US-based ecommerce company was importing decorative glass vases and hand-blown drinking glasses from a supplier in Guangdong, China. The company’s previous customs broker classified all products under HS 7013.28 (machine-made stemware), resulting in a 7.5% base duty plus 7.5% Section 301 tariff — a total of 15%.

Challenge: The company suspected they were overpaying because their products were hand-blown, not machine-made. They contacted a China sourcing agent for cross border ecommerce to review their product specifications and supplier invoices.

Solution: The sourcing agent worked with the supplier to obtain detailed manufacturing process documentation. The products were genuinely hand-blown by skilled artisans, which qualifies them for HS 7013.22 — hand-blown glassware — which carries only a 5.0% base duty rate. The agent also confirmed that the Section 301 tariff for this subheading was 7.5%, bringing the total to 12.5%.

Result: The reclassification reduced the duty rate from 15.0% to 12.5%, saving the company approximately USD 12,500 per year on annual imports of USD 500,000. After paying the sourcing agent’s consulting fee (USD 2,500), the net savings were USD 10,000 annually.

Lesson: Even a small difference in HS code classification — one driven by manufacturing method rather than product form — can yield significant cost savings. This case underscores the value of working with a Reliable manufacturing and procurement partner China who understands the nuances of customs classification for ceramic and glass products.

Common Duty Mistakes

Even experienced importers make mistakes when dealing with ceramic and glass product duties. Here are the most common ones:

1. Using a Generic HS Code

Many suppliers provide only a 6-digit HS code on their commercial invoice, which is insufficient for customs clearance. Importers must use the full 10-digit HTSUS code (US) or 8-digit CN code (EU). Using a generic “6911.10” instead of the specific “6911.10.3700” can result in delays or incorrect duty assessment.

2. Ignoring Anti-Dumping Duties

Importers often assume that the base duty rate is all they need to pay. Ceramic tableware imported into the EU or ceramic tiles imported into the US may face anti-dumping duties of 20–100% on top of standard rates. Always verify AD status before shipping.

3. Underestimating Section 301 Impact

US importers of Chinese products sometimes overlook Section 301 tariffs. Because these tariffs apply under Chapter 99 of the HTSUS and require the importer to report a separate Chapter 99 subheading, failure to do so results in customs penalties and interest.

4. Incorrect Valuation for Fragile Goods

Ceramic and glass products require careful packing, which adds weight. Importers often forget to include the cost of export packing in the customs value. While packing costs are generally not dutiable if separately identified, poorly documented invoices may cause customs to include them, increasing the dutiable value.

5. Not Using a Sourcing Expert

Many importers try to handle classification and duty estimation themselves, only to discover they have overpaid for months or years. A Bulk product sourcing from China wholesale suppliers specialist can audit your product line, reclassify items where appropriate, and ensure compliance from the start.

Reliable manufacturing and procurement partner China
Reliable manufacturing and procurement partner China
Reliable manufacturing and procurement partner China
Bulk product sourcing from China wholesale suppliers
Bulk product sourcing from China wholesale suppliers
Bulk product sourcing from China wholesale suppliers
China sourcing agent for cross border ecommerce
China sourcing agent for cross border ecommerce
China sourcing agent for cross border ecommerce

FAQ

1. What is the difference between porcelain and non-porcelain ceramic duty rates?

Porcelain and china (HS 6911) typically attract a higher base duty rate — around 8.0% in both the US and EU — compared to non-porcelain stoneware and earthenware (HS 6912), which range from 5.0% to 8.0%. Porcelain is considered a premium product category, and customs authorities classify it separately.

2. Are there any ceramic or glass products that enter the US duty-free?

Yes. Porcelain ornamental statuettes and figurines under HS 6913.10 qualify for a 0% base duty rate in the US (NTR rate). Some pharmaceutical glass containers under HS 7010.90.20 also enter duty-free. However, Section 301 tariffs may still apply to Chinese-origin products even when the base rate is zero.

3. How do I find the correct HS code for my ceramic product?

Start with the 4- or 6-digit heading that best describes your product. For ceramics, begin with Chapter 69; for glass, begin with Chapter 70. Use the USITC HTSUS search tool (for US) or the European Commission’s TARIC database (for EU) to drill down to the 8- or 10-digit level. If in doubt, request a Binding Ruling Information (BRI) from customs authorities. Alternatively, consult a Reliable manufacturing and procurement partner China for professional classification assistance.

4. What are Section 301 tariffs and do they apply to ceramic and glass?

Section 301 tariffs are additional duties imposed by the US on Chinese-origin goods due to findings of unfair trade practices. They apply to thousands of products across multiple lists. Most ceramic and glass products from China are subject to either 7.5% (List 4A) or 25% (List 3) additional duties. Check HTSUS Chapter 99 for the latest updates.

5. Can I get a refund on duties paid if I re-export the goods?

Yes, through duty drawback programs. The US offers up to 99% refund of duties paid on imported goods that are subsequently exported, destroyed, or used in manufacturing for export. The EU offers a similar inward processing relief system. Claiming drawback requires meticulous record-keeping and timely filing.

6. How do anti-dumping duties specifically affect ceramic tableware from China?

EU anti-dumping duties on Chinese ceramic tableware range from 13.1% to 36.1%, depending on the exporter. These are imposed in addition to the standard 8% CN duty. US anti-dumping duties on Chinese ceramic tiles range from 2.39% to over 350% in extreme cases. Importers should request a written duty calculation from their supplier or customs broker before confirming an order.

7. What documentation do I need for customs clearance of ceramic and glass products?

Key documents include: commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading / airway bill, certificate of origin (for preference claims), and any required compliance certificates (FDA, REACH, CE). For hand-blown glassware, a manufacturer’s affidavit describing the production process may be necessary to support the HS code classification.

8. Should I hire a customs broker or a sourcing agent for duty optimization?

Both. A customs broker handles the clearance process and ensures paperwork is filed correctly. A sourcing agent, particularly a Bulk product sourcing from China wholesale suppliers specialist, helps with HS code classification, supplier vetting, and document preparation before the shipment ever leaves China. Many importers use both for maximum efficiency and cost savings.

Conclusion

Understanding customs duties for ceramic and glass products from China is fundamental to cost management and compliance. From HS code classification to anti-dumping duties and Section 301 tariffs, the landscape is detailed and dynamic. A classification error can cost thousands, while correct classification provides a competitive advantage.

Duty rates for ceramic products range from 0% to over 12% at the base level in the US, with additional tariffs pushing rates higher. For the EU, base rates are 5% to 8%, but anti-dumping duties can add 13% to 36%. Glass products attract lower duties, typically 4% to 7.5% in both markets.

The key takeaways are:

1. Classify accurately — Use the most specific HS code based on material, manufacturing method, and intended use.
2. Check for additional duties — Always verify anti-dumping, Section 301, or other special tariffs.
3. Factor in all costs — VAT, processing fees, and brokerage fees can add 20–35% to your product cost.
4. Seek expert help — A knowledgeable sourcing partner can save far more than their fees.

Whether you import porcelain dinner sets, ceramic tiles, or glass bottles, optimizing your duty obligations improves margins and reduces risk. Partner with a Reliable manufacturing and procurement partner China to navigate international trade and keep your supply chain compliant and cost-effective.

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China customs duties, ceramic import tariffs, glass import duties, HS code ceramics, HS code glass, Section 301 China tariffs, anti-dumping ceramics EU, ceramic tableware duty rates, glassware import from China, customs duty calculation

What are the China customs duties for ceramic and glass products?最先出现在China Sourcing Agent。