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Definition and scope of subheading 8539 21

Subheading 8539 21 covers tungsten halogen filament lamps. These lamps contain an inert gas enriched with halogen (iodine or bromine), enabling a higher filament temperature and better luminous efficacy than standard incandescent lamps. The subheading covers linear halogen lamps (R7s), capsule types (G4, G9, GY6.35), reflector types (GU10, GU5.3) and automotive types (H1, H4, H7). The key criterion is a tungsten filament with halogen fill. Sealed beam types are classified under 8539 10. LED lamps under 8539 52. Under EU Ecodesign regulations, most halogen lamps for general lighting have been phased out.

Ecodesign regulations and market impact

Regulation (EU) 2019/2020 on Ecodesign requirements for light sources phased out most halogen lamps for general lighting from 1 September 2021. Exemptions remain for specialist lamps defined in Annex V: stage lighting, automotive ECE-approved lamps, medical, signalling and industrial applications with specific optical requirements. Import remains permitted for exempt categories. RoHS 2 restricts hazardous substances. WEEE 2 covers collection and recycling. CBAM does not apply.

Duty rates for subheading 8539 21

MFN rates should be verified in TARIC. The halogen lamp market is shrinking rapidly. Import focuses on specialist and automotive lamps. Preferential rates under FTAs. VAT is charged. TARIC code should be verified before clearance.

Frequently asked questions

Can halogen lamps still be imported into the EU?
Import of halogen lamps under 8539 21 remains permitted for categories exempt from Regulation (EU) 2019/2020: automotive ECE-approved lamps, stage, medical, signalling and industrial lamps with specific optical requirements. Halogen lamps for general household and commercial lighting (E14, E27, GU10 caps) have been phased out. Import is formally possible but sale on the EU market as general lighting is prohibited.
How to distinguish halogen lamps from other light sources in the CN?
Subheading 8539 21 covers tungsten filament lamps with halogen fill. LED lamps are classified under 8539 52. Fluorescent lamps under 8539 31/32/39. Non-halogen filament lamps up to 200 W under 8539 22, others under 8539 29. Sealed beams under 8539 10. The key criterion is the light source technology.
Are halogen lamps subject to CBAM?
No. CBAM covers only emissions-intensive goods. Halogen lamps under 8539 21 fall outside CBAM scope.