HS Code Subheading

Newspapers, journals and periodicals; whether or not illustrated or containing advertising material, appearing less frequently than four times a week

4902.90 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 490290

This HS code encompasses newspapers, journals, and periodicals that are published less frequently than four times a week, covering a broad spectrum from weekly magazines to monthly journals and quarterly academic publications. This category is crucial for disseminating specialized information, entertainment, and cultural content across borders. Importers and exporters include magazine publishers, academic presses, subscription services, and distributors catering to diverse interests, from fashion and lifestyle to science and arts. The trade in these goods is less time-sensitive than daily newspapers but still relies on efficient distribution channels. Key factors include editorial quality, target audience, advertising revenue, and subscription models. Despite the rise of digital content, many consumers still prefer physical magazines and journals for their curated content, visual appeal, and tactile experience. Environmental regulations like EUDR are increasingly important for ensuring sustainable paper sourcing in this sector.

Products Under This Code

Weekly magazines, monthly lifestyle magazines, quarterly academic journals, bi-monthly trade publications, annual reports (periodical format), specialized hobby magazines, literary reviews

Real World Examples

National Geographic Magazine, The Economist, Vogue, Scientific American, Harvard Business Review, Time Magazine, Reader's Digest

Common Misclassification

The primary distinction for this code is the publication frequency (less than four times a week), differentiating it from 490210. It should also not be confused with 490199 if the publication is a one-off special edition or a book-like annual, rather than a true periodical.

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.

Products Classified Under 4902.90

Industry

This code belongs to the Paper & Printing industry.

Trade Overview

The USA, UK, Germany, and France are major players in the international trade of lower-frequency periodicals, driven by their strong publishing industries and global brands.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 490290?

HS code 490290 covers: Newspapers, journals and periodicals; whether or not illustrated or containing advertising material, appearing less frequently than four times a week. This HS code encompasses newspapers, journals, and periodicals that are published less frequently than four times a week, covering a broad spectrum from weekly magazines to monthly journals and quarterly academic publications. This category is crucial for disseminating specialized information, entertainment, and cultural content across borders. Importers and exporters include magazine publishers, academic presses, subscription services, and distributors catering to diverse interests, from fashion and lifestyle to science and arts. The trade in these goods is less time-sensitive than daily newspapers but still relies on efficient distribution channels. Key factors include editorial quality, target audience, advertising revenue, and subscription models. Despite the rise of digital content, many consumers still prefer physical magazines and journals for their curated content, visual appeal, and tactile experience. Environmental regulations like EUDR are increasingly important for ensuring sustainable paper sourcing in this sector.

What products fall under HS code 490290?

Weekly magazines, monthly lifestyle magazines, quarterly academic journals, bi-monthly trade publications, annual reports (periodical format), specialized hobby magazines, literary reviews

What are common misclassifications for HS code 490290?

The primary distinction for this code is the publication frequency (less than four times a week), differentiating it from 490210. It should also not be confused with 490199 if the publication is a one-off special edition or a book-like annual, rather than a true periodical.

How is HS code 490290 structured?

HS code 490290 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (49) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (02) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (90) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.