Ships, boats and floating structures (chapter 89): which countries import it
Chapter 89 covers ships, boats and floating structures for transport, fishing, pleasure and specialized uses. Global imports reached USD 67.5 billion in…
Published on 27 September 2026Updated on 27 September 2026
Chapter 89 covers ships, boats and floating structures for transport, fishing, pleasure and specialized uses. Global imports reached USD 67.5 billion in 2025, with France, Brazil and India as the largest markets. Exporting from Spain requires understanding which heading applies, checking destination regulations and preparing for technical certifications.
Fact sheet
- Code
- 89
- Sector
- Industry and Machinery
Main importing markets
USD · 2025| Country | Imports (USD) |
|---|---|
| France | 10,189,822,303 |
| Brazil | 5,440,342,108 |
| India | 4,607,467,669 |
| Germany | 4,199,514,627 |
| Denmark | 3,854,921,202 |
| Netherlands | 3,840,644,219 |
| South Korea | 3,721,555,588 |
| Australia | 3,064,190,085 |
| United States | 3,063,957,231 |
| Thailand | 2,783,742,742 |
| Guyana | 2,562,197,738 |
| Italy | 1,896,204,258 |
| Saudi Arabia | 1,850,078,171 |
| Greece | 1,520,266,957 |
| Indonesia | 1,499,482,876 |
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
- Cruise ships, excursion boats, ferry-boats, cargo ships, barges and similar vessels for the transport of persons or goodsHeading 8901
- Fishing vessels, factory ships and other vessels; for processing or preserving fishery productsHeading 8902
- Yachts and other vessels; for pleasure or sports, rowing boats and canoesHeading 8903
- Tugs and pusher craftHeading 8904
- Light-vessels, fire-floats, dredgers, floating cranes, other vessels; the navigability of which is subsidiary to main function; floating docks, floating, submersible drilling, production platformsHeading 8905
- Vessels; other, including warships and lifeboats, other than rowing boatsHeading 8906
- Boats, floating structures, other (for e.g. rafts, tanks, coffer-dams, landing stages, buoys and beacons)Heading 8907
- Vessels and other floating structures; for breaking upHeading 8908
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 know before exporting
The chapter divides into eight headings, each with different scope and requirements. Heading 8901 covers merchant ships and ferries; 8902 covers fishing vessels and factory ships; 8903 covers pleasure yachts and boats; 8904 covers tugs; 8905 covers specialized vessels like dredgers and floating platforms; 8906 covers other ships including warships; 8907 covers floating structures like rafts and buoys; 8908 covers vessels for breaking up. Your product fits into one heading, and that determines the applicable tariff and rules.
The tariff you pay depends on the subheading within your heading, the destination country, and any trade agreement in force. For exports from Spain, check the applicable rates in Access2Markets by entering your exact product code and destination. The EU maintains specific duties for many destinations under preferential agreements, while others face standard rates.
Technical specifications and safety standards vary by destination. Vessels intended for EU markets must meet EU maritime directives; those for other markets must comply with the importing country's maritime authority rules. Your buyer or their freight forwarder can advise on the certifications required in the destination, but you should budget for inspections and compliance documentation before shipment.
France is your largest single market at USD 10.2 billion in imports, followed by Brazil at USD 5.4 billion and India at USD 4.6 billion. Understand that these figures include all boat types and sizes: your segment may represent a smaller share. Research the specific buyer base in your target market—whether it is commercial shipyards, fishing operators, recreation retailers or government procurement—because each follows different purchasing cycles and certification paths.
Questions about exporting boats and ships
How do I know which heading applies to my product?
Read the heading definitions in the chapter list. If your vessel transports passengers or cargo, it is likely 8901 or 8902. If it is for pleasure or sports, it is 8903. If it performs a specialized function like dredging or floating crane work, check 8905. Your product code determines the tariff rate, so if you are unsure, ask a customs broker in Spain—they can classify it under Spanish import law and confirm the heading with your local customs authority.
What certifications do I need for a boat export?
Certifications depend on the destination country and the boat's intended use. Vessels under 24 meters for EU markets must meet the Recreation Craft Directive (EU 2017/1322); larger commercial vessels must meet international maritime conventions. For non-EU destinations, requirements vary: check with the importing country's maritime authority or ask your buyer's customs broker. Certificates are issued after inspection and testing, so plan for this before shipment.
Which markets should I focus on first?
France is the largest importer in Chapter 89 at USD 10.2 billion annually. However, your specific product type—whether it is small pleasure boats, fishing vessels or specialized craft—may have stronger demand in other markets. Research the buyer base in your segment: for small boats, Northern Europe and the Mediterranean are active; for industrial or fishing vessels, Brazil and India show strong imports. Consider starting with markets where your product type has established demand and where your Spanish origin is a recognized brand.
How long does shipping take and what are typical Incoterms?
Shipping time depends on destination and vessel size. Self-propelled vessels can transit under their own power; smaller boats are typically containerized or loaded on breakbulk vessels. To Europe, plan 1–3 weeks; to Brazil, 2–4 weeks; to India, 3–6 weeks depending on port. Incoterms vary by buyer: large commercial buyers often negotiate CIF or FOB; smaller buyers may prefer DDP if your company handles customs. Discuss terms with your buyer and freight forwarder together.
What tariff should I expect when exporting from Spain?
Tariffs depend on your destination and subheading. EU countries charge zero duty under internal rules. Many non-EU countries benefit from EU preferential agreements—check Access2Markets by entering your subheading and destination to see the applicable rate. If no agreement applies, the standard MFN tariff is used. Rates range widely depending on the product type within Chapter 89, so confirm your exact subheading before quoting.
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