HS Code for Pharmaceuticals & Medical Products: Cyprus Tariff Classification Guide
Find the correct HS code for pharmaceuticals and medical products imported into Cyprus. Medicines, medical devices, surgical instruments & more. Duty rates explained.
What is the HS Code for Pharmaceuticals & Medical Products?
Pharmaceuticals and medicinal products are classified primarily under Chapter 30 of the Harmonized System, while medical devices and instruments fall under Chapter 90. Chapter 30 covers medicinal products for human or veterinary use, including antibiotics, hormones, vaccines, blood products, and pharmaceutical preparations. Most pharmaceutical products benefit from 0% import duty under the EU's Pharmaceutical Tariff Elimination Agreement, making them one of the few product categories with zero duty regardless of origin. Medical devices (surgical instruments, diagnostic equipment, imaging machines) are classified under Chapter 90 and typically attract 0–3.7% duty. Importing pharmaceuticals into Cyprus also requires compliance with EU pharmaceutical regulations, including marketing authorisation from the European Medicines Agency (EMA) or the Cyprus Pharmaceutical Services.
Pharmaceuticals are classified under Chapter 30 based on their active ingredient and therapeutic use. Medical devices are classified under Chapter 90 based on their function (diagnostic, surgical, therapeutic, optical). The specific HS code depends on the formulation, dosage form, and whether the product is for human or veterinary use.
Duty Rate Overview
Most pharmaceuticals: 0% duty under the Pharmaceutical Tariff Elimination Agreement. Medical devices: 0–3.7%. Diagnostic equipment: 0%. Surgical instruments: 0–3.7%. VAT at 5% applies to most medicines (reduced rate); 19% applies to medical devices.
HS Code Examples for Pharmaceuticals & Medical Products
| Product | HS Code (CN) | Description | Duty Rate | VAT | Verify |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Antibiotic (amoxicillin capsules) | 3004.20.00 | Medicaments containing antibiotics, in measured doses | 0% | 5% | |
| Insulin (for diabetes) | 3004.31.00 | Medicaments containing insulin | 0% | 5% | |
| Surgical scalpel | 9018.32.10 | Dental drills and other dental equipment — scalpels | 0% | 19% | |
| MRI scanner | 9018.13.10 | Magnetic resonance imaging apparatus | 0% | 19% | |
| Blood glucose monitor | 9027.80.17 | Instruments for measuring or checking, other | 0% | 19% |
* Duty rates are indicative. Actual rates depend on origin and trade agreements.
Not sure of the exact HS code for your product?
Use our free AI-powered HS Code Classification Tool. Describe your product and get the correct 8-digit CN code, duty rate, and VAT estimate in seconds — powered by Cyprus Customs tariff data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are pharmaceuticals duty-free when imported to Cyprus?
Yes. Most pharmaceutical products (Chapter 30) are duty-free at 0% under the Pharmaceutical Tariff Elimination Agreement, regardless of the country of origin. However, import VAT applies — medicines attract the reduced VAT rate of 5% in Cyprus.
Do I need a licence to import medicines into Cyprus?
Yes. Importing medicinal products into Cyprus requires a marketing authorisation from the European Medicines Agency (EMA) or the Cyprus Pharmaceutical Services. Parallel imports require a parallel import licence. Personal imports of prescription medicines are subject to specific quantity limits.
What is the HS code for medical devices?
Medical devices are classified under Chapter 90. Surgical instruments are under heading 9018, diagnostic equipment under 9027, and imaging equipment under 9018. Most medical devices attract 0% import duty.
Can I import personal medication to Cyprus?
Passengers can bring personal medication into Cyprus for their own use, typically up to a 3-month supply. Controlled substances (narcotics, psychotropics) require a prior authorisation from the Cyprus Ministry of Health. Prescription medicines should be accompanied by a doctor's prescription.
What VAT rate applies to medicines imported to Cyprus?
Medicines and pharmaceutical products attract the reduced VAT rate of 5% in Cyprus. Medical devices and equipment attract the standard VAT rate of 19%.
Related HS Code Guides
Related Import Guides
Important Disclaimer
The duty rates, HS codes, and tariff information on this page are provided for general guidance only and are based on the EU Common Customs Tariff (TARIC) as at the date of publication. Actual rates applicable to your shipment may differ depending on the country of origin, applicable EU trade agreements (preferential rates), anti-dumping or countervailing measures, tariff suspensions, tariff-rate quotas, and any subsequent amendments to EU legislation. Rates are subject to change without notice. This information does not constitute professional customs or legal advice. P. Panagi & Sons Ltd accepts no liability for errors, omissions, or reliance on this information. Always verify current rates using the official Cyprus Customs Tariff Browser or contact a licensed customs broker before making commercial decisions.
Need help classifying your goods?
Our licensed customs brokers have over 40 years of experience classifying goods for Cyprus import. We handle the paperwork, HS codes, and customs clearance — so you can focus on your business.