Importing Candles from China to the EU: Duty-Free Access and Compliance Essentials

After two decades of sourcing from China, I've seen countless importers succeed with candles—but only if they navigate EU regulations correctly. With China supplying nearly a quarter of the world's candles, the opportunity is huge, but you need to know the right suppliers, duty rates, and compliance requirements to avoid costly delays. Here's what I've learned about importing candles from China to the European Union.

Importing candles from China

Before you decide to import candles from China, you should first get some information about it. You need to answer the following questions:

• Where are candles produced in China?
• How to find the best candle suppliers from China?
• How much is the EU customs duty for candles?
• What are the formal requirements for importing candles from China to the EU?
• Do candles require a CE mark?

Where are candles produced in China?

The most popular candles in China are made of paraffin or soy wax. They come in different shapes and colors, and they also differ in burning time and scents.

Most Chinese candle suppliers are located in Qingdao (Anhui Province) and Shijiazhuang (Hebei Province). One company from Qingdao is the third-largest candle manufacturer in the world. It exports as much as 90% of its candles.

EU duty on candles from China

The import of products into the European Union is taxed. One type of tax for imported goods intended for sale is customs duty. To calculate the duty, find out the duty rate for your product. You can check it for free in the EU TARIC system.

Have you searched the nomenclature tree but to no avail? Contact us and let us find the best code: call us at 1 (562) 380-2081 or email us at contact@china-check.com.

What is the customs duty on candles imported from China?

The customs duty on candles, including taper and the like, is 0%. The customs code for such goods in the EU is 3406000000.

Please bear in mind that additional national taxes, such as excise tax, may be levied.

EU requirements for candles

In order to introduce products into the EU, you must stay compliant. You need to prove that your products meet mandatory requirements. The importer is responsible for checking that the manufacturer has run a conformity assessment or is involved in other activities to demonstrate conformity with regulatory requirements. What are the requirements for candles in the EU?

REACH – Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals

REACH regulates chemicals in products in the EU. Since candles may contain or emit regulated substances such as phthalates, lead, benzene, or methylbenzene, importers should check whether the products are compliant.

Furthermore, candles may contain substances of very high concern as defined by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA), such as:

• xylene musk
• paraffin.

Do candles require the CE mark?

There is no obligation to affix the CE mark to normal candles. The exceptions are, for example, electrical ones and children’s toys. 

Candle trade fairs in China

Instead of browsing B2B websites such as Alibaba and Made-in-China, do you prefer face-to-face contact with suppliers? Sign up for trade fairs related to your industry in China to establish unique business contacts and get inspired by new products. Below, we present selected industry fairs in China.

The Canton Fair

• The Canton Fair is the largest trade fair in China. It takes place twice a year – in spring and fall. Both the spring and fall editions are divided into three phases. To meet candle suppliers, attend Phase 2.
• Venue: Guangzhou, China Import and Export Fair Complex
• Website: cantonfair.org.cn/en-US

China (Chengdu) Gifts & Houseware Fair

• If you are looking for ideas for gifts and home accessories, Gifts & Home Chengdu is the fair for you.
• Venue: Chengdu, Century City New International Convention and Exhibition Center
• Website: jun.rxhuabo.com.cn

China Yiwu International Commodities Fair

• Yiwu is the so-called “wholesaler of the world.” Yiwu Int. Fair is the largest trade fair for everyday goods. Candle suppliers are also present at the trade show. 
• Venue: Yiwu, Yiwu International Expo Center
• Website: yiwufair.com

Shanghai International Gifts & Household Goods Exhibition

• Shanghai International Gifts & Household Goods Exhibition is a trade fair featuring exhibitions of gifts, corporate freebies, and home decorations. Some exhibitors showcase candles and alike.
• Venue: Shanghai, Shanghai New International Expo Centre (SNIEC)
• Website: rxhuabo.com.cn  

Importing candles from China to the EU – to sum up

Candles can be a great gift or an item that decorates your home or office, putting your family members or customers in a good mood. As they have to be replaced once used, importing candles from China is a good business idea. It is important to remember to follow the applicable rules and fees associated with imports from China.

Before you place your next candle order, take the time to vet your supplier and confirm your products meet all EU requirements—skipping this step is the fastest way to lose money. A simple supplier verification and a pre-shipment quality inspection can save you from the headaches I’ve seen too many importers face. Let China-Check handle the due diligence so you can focus on growing your candle business.