Printed books, newspapers, pictures and… (chapter 49): which countries import it
Chapter 49 covers printed books, newspapers, postcards, maps, and other printing industry products. Global imports exceeded USD 18 billion in 2025, led…
Published on 15 September 2026Updated on 27 September 2026
Chapter 49 covers printed books, newspapers, postcards, maps, and other printing industry products. Global imports exceeded USD 18 billion in 2025, led by the United States, Germany, and China. Spain exported USD 618 million to the world. Tariffs and regulations vary by destination and product subheading.
Fact sheet
- Code
- 49
- Sector
- Industry and Machinery
Main importing markets
USD · 2025| Country | Imports (USD) |
|---|---|
| United States | 5,160,226,030 |
| Germany | 3,269,360,669 |
| China | 2,071,754,306 |
| Canada | 1,911,835,062 |
| France | 1,893,232,729 |
| United Kingdom | 1,790,578,055 |
| Netherlands | 1,584,468,546 |
| Switzerland | 1,365,693,582 |
| Hong Kong SAR China | 1,139,766,939 |
| Austria | 905,049,898 |
| Poland | 742,359,301 |
| Mexico | 726,267,926 |
| Italy | 684,869,086 |
| Australia | 629,490,854 |
| Spain | 618,564,180 |
Imports declared by each country from the world. Countries report with a delay: the period is the latest with consolidated data.
Source: UN ComtradeData for 2025Verified on 27 September 2026
Headings in this chapter
- Printed books, brochures, leaflets and similar printed matter, whether or not in single sheetsHeading 4901
- Newspapers, journals and periodicals, whether or not illustrated or containing advertising materialHeading 4902
- Children's picture, drawing or colouring booksHeading 4903
- Music, printed or in manuscript, whether or not bound or illustratedHeading 4904
- Maps and hydrographic or similar charts of all kinds, including atlases, wall maps, topographical plans and globes, printedHeading 4905
- Plans and drawings; for architectural, engineering, industrial, commercial, topographical or similar, being originals drawn by hand; hand-written texts; photo- graphic reproductions; their carbon copiesHeading 4906
- Unused postage, revenue or similar stamps of current or new issue in the country in which they have, or will have, a recognised face value; stamp-impressed paper; cheque forms; banknotes, stock, share or bond certificates and the like of similar titleHeading 4907
- Transfers (decalcomanias)Heading 4908
- Printed or illustrated postcards; printed cards bearing personal greetings, messages or announcements, whether or not illustrated, with or without envelopes or trimmingsHeading 4909
- Calendars of any kind, printed, including calendar blocksHeading 4910
- Printed matter, n.e.c., including printed pictures and photographsHeading 4911
Trade fairs in this sector
- Advanced Factories
- bauma
- BIEMH – Bienal Internacional de Máquina‑Herramienta
- EMO (Exposition Mondiale de la Machine Outil)
- Hannover Messe
- interpack – PROCESSING & PACKAGING
What you need to check before exporting printed products
Chapter 49 is not a single product: it groups printed books, newspapers, postcards, maps, music scores, manuscripts, and transfers (decalcomanias). Each heading has its own classification rules, and tariffs depend on the exact subheading and the destination country.
The tariff rate applied to your shipment depends on the agreement between Spain and the importing country. For EU destinations, there are no tariffs. For other countries, check the duty rate in Access2Markets by entering your product code and destination.
Most printed products in Chapter 49 face no specific certifications at the border, but content rules vary by destination. Religious texts, political material, or books with imagery may encounter restrictions in some markets: research the importing country's content regulations before shipping.
Packaging and labeling requirements depend on the product type and destination. Printed books often require country of origin marking; some countries require import licenses for certain publications. Verify requirements with the customs authority of your destination market.
Many printed products qualify for reduced tariffs or tariff suspensions under trade agreements. If you export to Canada, Mexico, or the UK, check whether your product benefits from preferential rates under those agreements.
The largest markets for Chapter 49 products are the United States, Germany, and China. Your target market determines not only the tariff but also the shipping route, payment terms, and compliance burden. Start by identifying which markets match your product and production capacity.
Common questions about exporting Chapter 49
How do I find the exact tariff rate for my product?
Tariffs depend on the subheading within Chapter 49 and the importing country. Use Access2Markets (European Commission) or the customs authority website of your destination country. Enter your product code and destination to see the duty rate, any quotas, and preferential agreements. Rates change annually, so check before each shipment.
Do printed books require certificates or licenses to export?
Most printed books do not require export licenses from Spain. However, the importing country may require an import license, particularly for educational materials, religious texts, or publications subject to copyright. Contact the customs authority of your destination market or consult a customs broker familiar with that country.
What is the difference between printed books (4901) and newspapers (4902)?
Books are bound or unbound volumes with editorial content, typically with 49 or more pages. Newspapers and journals are periodical publications, usually lighter and printed on cheaper paper. The distinction affects tariff rates and some import requirements. If unsure, reference the HS Notes or ask a customs specialist.
Are there trade agreements that reduce tariffs for printed products?
Yes. Spain has preferential trade agreements with many countries through the EU. For example, most printed products enter Canada, Mexico, and the UK at reduced rates. Check Access2Markets to see if your product qualifies for a lower duty rate under a specific agreement.
What do I need to know about shipping printed matter internationally?
Printed matter is generally low-risk cargo with no hazardous material classification. Ensure books are properly boxed to avoid damage and water exposure. Label packages with country of origin and, where required by destination, with import data. Weight and volume are usually moderate, so shipping costs are predictable. Verify with your freight forwarder whether the destination has any restrictions on the types of books or printed content allowed.
Bring this analysis to your product
Create your free account: Exporta.ai reads your website, detects your HS code and tells you which markets to export to, with official data.