China updates policy for imported scrap

The Chinese General Administration of Customs has announced it is adjusting the catalog of import and export commodities that must be inspected. The administration has announced eight 10-digit customs codes for imported recycled raw materials:

• 7204 10 00 10 ex GB/T 39733-2020; 
• 7204 21 00 10 ex GB/T 39733-2020; 
• 7204 29 00 10 ex GB/T 39733-2020; 
• 7204 41 00 10 ex GB/T 39733-2020;
• 7204 49 00 30 ex GB/T 39733-2020; 
• 7404 00 00 20 ex GB/T 38470-2019; 
• 7404 00 00 30 ex GB/T 38471-2019; and
• 7602 00 00 20 ex GB/T 38472-2019.

According to a news release from Brussels-based Bureau of International Recycling (BIR), the changes imply that imported recycled steel, brass, copper and cast aluminum alloy raw materials must be subject to inspection by customs as of June 10. BIR reports that it is investigating the implications of this update for its members.