Product classification
HS code for Newsprint paper: 4801.00
Newsprint, made of fibres obtained essentially by a chemi-mechanical process or of a weight, per m2, of more than 57g but not more than 65g, in rolls or sheets.
Classification of newsprint paper under HS 4801.00
Newsprint paper is classified under HS code 480100 because it meets the specific technical criteria defined in the Harmonized System Explanatory Notes for Chapter 48. This code covers uncoated paper of a kind used for the printing of newspapers, where at least 65% by weight of the total fiber content consists of wood fibers obtained by a mechanical or chemi-mechanical process. The classification is strictly governed by physical properties: the paper must have a smoothness on each side not exceeding 200 seconds Bekk, a weight of not less than 40 g/m2 and not more than 65 g/m2, and an ash content by weight exceeding 8%. These parameters are essential to distinguish newsprint from other types of graphic papers used for magazines or general printing. The mechanical pulp content is the primary factor, as it provides the opacity and ink absorption qualities necessary for high-speed newspaper presses. Furthermore, the absence of sizing or coating is a requirement for this specific heading. If the paper exceeds the weight limit or has a different fiber composition, it must be moved to a different heading within the 4802 series. The classification applies regardless of whether the paper is presented in rolls or in rectangular sheets. Customs authorities often require laboratory testing to confirm the fiber content and the Bekk smoothness to ensure the product is not being misdeclared to take advantage of lower duty rates typically applied to newsprint compared to high-quality writing paper.
- Covers
- Standard newsprint in rolls for rotary presses
- Newsprint sheets for flat-bed printing
- Chemi-mechanical pulp-based printing paper
- Lightweight uncoated paper for periodicals
- Uncoated paper for mass-market paperback books
- Also under 4801.00
- AbitibiBowater newsprint
- Resolute Forest Products newsprint
- Norske Skog newsprint
- Kruger newsprint.
Codes often confused with 4801.00
Common mistake. Newsprint is frequently confused with HS code 4802, which covers uncoated paper and paperboard of a kind used for writing, printing, or other graphic purposes. The distinction lies in the fiber content and weight; 4802 typically contains less than 65% mechanical fiber. Another common error is 4810, which applies to coated papers. If newsprint has even a thin layer of kaolin or other substances to improve the surface, it must be classified under 4810. Additionally, paper weighing less than 40g/m2 or more than 65g/m2 falls outside 480100 and into 4802.
Top exporters and importers of HS 480100 (the code used for newsprint paper), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 480100 (the code used for newsprint paper) in UN Comtrade data was Canada, with 34% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 14% of world imports. Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Figures cover everything classified under HS 480100, not only newsprint paper.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 Canada $897M 34% of world exports
- 2 Russia* ~$263M 10.0% of world exports · partner records ↗
- 3 France $258M 9.8% of world exports
World total: $2.6B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $421M 14% of world imports
- 2 Germany $359M 12% of world imports
- 3 India $322M 11% of world imports
World total: $3.0B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
How these figures are built
109 countries reported 2025 trade to UN Comtrade in HS 2022, and their own totals are used. Countries marked * did not, so their figures add up what other countries recorded trading with them, and their exports are valued at buyers' CIF prices. Those estimates miss trade with other non-reporting countries, so they can be low, and a non-reporting country can rank higher than shown or be missing from the list. World totals add both and leave out trade between two non-reporting countries. Figures are in current US dollars; reported imports are mostly valued CIF and exports FOB, and exports include re-exports. The UN Comtrade links show the underlying records; they can also list a few reporters left out here (regional groups and older HS editions).
Source: UN Comtrade (United Nations Statistics Division), 2025 annual data.
Brazil NCM codes for newsprint paper
Brazil splits HS 4801.00 into 3 NCM codes. Pick the one that matches your product:
- 4801.00.20Newsprint in sheets, no side over 360 mm
- 4801.00.30Newsprint max 57 g/m², 65% or more mechanical wood
- 4801.00.90Other newsprint, in rolls or sheets
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
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.
Questions about newsprint paper
What is the HS code for Newsprint paper?
The HS code for Newsprint paper is 480100 (Newsprint; made of fibres obtained essentially by a chemi-mechanical process or of a weight, per m2, of more than 57g but not more than 65g, in rolls or sheets). The HS code for newsprint paper is 480100, provided it meets specific weight (40-65g/m2) and fiber content (65% mechanical pulp) requirements.
How do I classify Newsprint paper for customs?
Newsprint paper is classified under HS code 480100 — Newsprint; made of fibres obtained essentially by a chemi-mechanical process or of a weight, per m2, of more than 57g but not more than 65g, in rolls or sheets. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Does newsprint in sheets have a different code?
No, HS code 480100 covers newsprint in both rolls and sheets, as long as the technical specifications regarding weight and pulp composition are met.
Which countries are the top exporters of newsprint paper (HS 480100)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 480100 (the code used for newsprint paper) in UN Comtrade data were Canada ($897M, 34% of world exports), Russia (about $263M) and France ($258M). World exports came to about $2.6B, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Which countries are the top importers of newsprint paper (HS 480100)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 480100 (the code used for newsprint paper) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($421M, 14% of world imports), Germany ($359M) and India ($322M). World imports came to about $3.0B, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Is the HS code for Newsprint paper the same in all countries?
The base HS code 480100 for Newsprint paper is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.
What is the NCM code for newsprint paper in Brazil?
Brazil splits HS 480100 into 3 NCM codes, so the right one for newsprint paper depends on the product's details: 4801.00.20 (Newsprint in sheets, no side over 360 mm), 4801.00.30 (Newsprint max 57 g/m², 65% or more mechanical wood), 4801.00.90 (Other newsprint, in rolls or sheets).