HS 961310 Pocket lighters, gas fuelled, non-refillable
Quick Answer: Pocket lighters, gas fuelled, non-refillable, imported under HS 961310 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 2.70% ad valorem, and the US at 4% ad valorem under the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate. This classification specifically covers disposable lighters that are powered by gas and cannot be refilled. Importers should be aware of the significant duty rate disparity for the US market, where preferential trade agreements can lead to duty-free entry for certain originating countries. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying specific origin-based duty rates for accurate landed cost calculations.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9613100000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9613100000 | 2.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9613100000 | 4% | Free (17 programs) | ["No."] |
Special rates available under trade agreements including USMCA, KORUS, GSP.
Duty rates sourced from the USITC (US International Trade Commission) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) (accessed 2/22/2026), EU TARIC – DG TAXUD (Directorate-General for Taxation and Customs Union) (accessed 2/22/2026), and UK Trade Tariff – HMRC (His Majesty's Revenue and Customs) (accessed 2/22/2026).
Data compiled and presented by HSRates.
Which Trade Agreements Reduce Duties for HS 9613.10?
Imports of Pocket lighters, gas fuelled, non-refillable may qualify for reduced or zero duty rates under free trade agreements and preferential programs. The overview below shows available preferential arrangements by jurisdiction, compiled by HSRates from official tariff and trade agreement data.
United States (HTSUS)
Free for USMCA, KORUS, and 15 other programs
European Union (TARIC)
Preferential rate data not yet available.
United Kingdom
Preferential rate data not yet available.
Preferential rates require proof of origin and may be subject to quotas or conditions. Always verify eligibility with a licensed customs broker.
Data compiled by HSRates.
Which Preferential Rates Apply to Your Origin Country?
Select an origin country to see if preferential rates apply.
Preferential rates based on available trade agreements. Actual rates may vary.
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 961310 cover?
This subheading covers pocket lighters that are fueled by gas, specifically butane or other liquefied petroleum gases, and are designed for single use without the possibility of refilling. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, these are distinct from refillable lighters. The US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database align with this definition, focusing on the non-refillable nature and gas fuel source as primary classification criteria.
What falls outside HS 961310?
The following products are excluded from HS 961310: refillable pocket lighters, which are classified under HS 961310.00.00 in some jurisdictions; lighters that use liquid fuel, such as naphtha; electric lighters; and novelty lighters that do not function as primary ignition devices. Also excluded are matches (HS 3605) and cigar cutters or other smoking accessories that do not incorporate an ignition mechanism.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 961310?
A common error is misclassifying refillable pocket lighters as non-refillable under HS 961310. This often occurs when the distinction between a disposable, sealed unit and a lighter with a replaceable fuel cartridge or mechanism is not clearly understood. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, classification is determined by the terms of the heading and any relative section or chapter notes, emphasizing the functional design of the lighter.
How should importers classify products under HS 961310?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 961310 involves verifying that the lighter is a pocket-sized device, utilizes gas fuel (e.g., butane), and is explicitly designed to be non-refillable. Importers and customs brokers must consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, to confirm the exact wording and any subheadings. Reviewing product specifications and manufacturer documentation is crucial.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 961310?
A shipment of 1,000 disposable butane pocket lighters, each declared at a customs value of $0.50 USD, for a total declared value of $500.00 USD, would attract a US duty. Assuming a Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 10% ad valorem as published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS 961310, the duty would be $50.00 USD (10% × $500.00 USD). This calculation is based on the declared value of the goods.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 961310?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 961310, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a Free duty rate for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) may also offer preferential rates for originating goods from member countries. Documentation typically required includes a USMCA Certificate of Origin or a self-certified origin declaration.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 961310 (Pocket lighters, gas fuelled, non-refillable)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 961310 is 2.70% ad valorem. However, preferential rates can significantly reduce or eliminate duties for goods originating from countries with trade agreements with the importing nation. For example, under certain agreements, the duty rate may be Free (0.00%) for imports from countries like Australia (AU), Canada (CA), Mexico (MX), South Korea (KR), and Singapore (SG), among others. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country and verify the country of origin to determine the applicable duty rate.
What specific criteria define a 'pocket lighter, gas fuelled, non-refillable' under HS code 961310?
Under HS code 961310, 'pocket lighters, gas fuelled, non-refillable' are characterized by their size (designed to fit in a pocket), their fuel source (liquefied hydrocarbon gas, such as butane or propane), and their non-refillable nature. This means the gas reservoir is sealed and cannot be replenished by the user. Once the initial gas supply is exhausted, the lighter is intended to be discarded. This distinguishes them from refillable lighters, which fall under a different HS code (961320).
How is the import duty for HS code 961310 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The duty for HS code 961310 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it is a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For instance, if the MFN duty rate is 2.70% and you import 1,000 pocket lighters with a declared customs value of $1.00 per lighter (total value $1,000), the duty calculation would be: $1,000 (total value) × 2.70% (duty rate) = $27.00. If a preferential rate of Free (0.00%) applies due to a trade agreement, the duty would be $0.00.
What documentation is typically required for importing pocket lighters under HS code 961310?
Standard import documentation for HS code 961310 generally includes a commercial invoice, a packing list, and a bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country and the origin of the goods, a Certificate of Origin may be required to claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. Importers should also be aware of any specific safety or consumer product regulations that may apply to lighters in the destination market, which could necessitate additional certifications or declarations.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 961310, and how can importers verify eligibility?
Many trade agreements offer preferential duty rates, often Free (0.00%), for goods classified under HS code 961310. Examples include agreements like the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), and various bilateral free trade agreements (e.g., with South Korea, Australia, Chile). To verify eligibility, importers must: 1. Confirm the goods meet the rules of origin specified in the relevant trade agreement. 2. Obtain a valid Certificate of Origin from the exporter, properly completed and issued within the required timeframe. 3. Ensure the importing country's customs authority recognizes the trade agreement and its preferential treatment for this HS code. Consulting the official customs tariff database of the importing country (e.g., USITC, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff) is essential for precise details.