HS Code Subheading

Printed matter; dictionaries, encyclopaedias and serial instalments thereof

4901.91 Subheading
Section X — Pulp of wood or of other fibrous cellulosic material; recovered (waste and scrap) paper or paperboard; paper and paperboard and articles thereof

About HS Code 490191

This specific HS code is dedicated to the trade of dictionaries, encyclopaedias, and their serial instalments, representing a niche but historically significant segment of the printed matter market. These goods are primarily traded by educational publishers, academic institutions, and specialized book distributors. While digital alternatives have significantly impacted the demand for physical copies, there remains a market for high-quality, comprehensive reference works, especially in educational settings, libraries, and for collectors. International trade in these items often involves language-specific editions, translations, and specialized subject matter encyclopaedias. Key aspects include the intellectual property rights, the accuracy and currency of the content, and the quality of binding and paper. The longevity and perceived authority of these reference works contribute to their continued, albeit reduced, presence in global trade. Compliance with timber regulations like EUDR and EUTR is relevant for the paper used in their production.

Products Under This Code

English-Spanish dictionary, medical encyclopaedia, children's picture dictionary, legal dictionary, multi-volume encyclopaedia set, thesaurus, language learning dictionary

Real World Examples

Oxford English Dictionary, Encyclopaedia Britannica, Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary, Larousse Gastronomique, Dorling Kindersley Visual Dictionary

Common Misclassification

This code is distinct from 490199 (other books, brochures) because of its specific focus on reference works. Confusion might arise if a general knowledge book is mistakenly classified as an encyclopaedia, but the defining characteristic is its comprehensive, systematic reference nature.

EU Regulatory Requirements

This product category is subject to the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). Importers must provide due diligence statements proving the product was not produced on deforested land after December 31, 2020.

This product is covered by the EU Timber Regulation (EUTR), requiring operators to exercise due diligence to minimize the risk of placing illegally harvested timber on the EU market.

Products Classified Under 4901.91

Industry

This code belongs to the Paper & Printing industry.

Trade Overview

The UK, USA, and Germany are key players in the publishing and trade of dictionaries and encyclopaedias, given their strong publishing industries and educational systems.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 490191?

HS code 490191 covers: Printed matter; dictionaries, encyclopaedias and serial instalments thereof. This specific HS code is dedicated to the trade of dictionaries, encyclopaedias, and their serial instalments, representing a niche but historically significant segment of the printed matter market. These goods are primarily traded by educational publishers, academic institutions, and specialized book distributors. While digital alternatives have significantly impacted the demand for physical copies, there remains a market for high-quality, comprehensive reference works, especially in educational settings, libraries, and for collectors. International trade in these items often involves language-specific editions, translations, and specialized subject matter encyclopaedias. Key aspects include the intellectual property rights, the accuracy and currency of the content, and the quality of binding and paper. The longevity and perceived authority of these reference works contribute to their continued, albeit reduced, presence in global trade. Compliance with timber regulations like EUDR and EUTR is relevant for the paper used in their production.

What products fall under HS code 490191?

English-Spanish dictionary, medical encyclopaedia, children's picture dictionary, legal dictionary, multi-volume encyclopaedia set, thesaurus, language learning dictionary

What are common misclassifications for HS code 490191?

This code is distinct from 490199 (other books, brochures) because of its specific focus on reference works. Confusion might arise if a general knowledge book is mistakenly classified as an encyclopaedia, but the defining characteristic is its comprehensive, systematic reference nature.

How is HS code 490191 structured?

HS code 490191 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (49) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (01) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (91) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.