Harmonized System

H.1.1 Japan – Alcoholic Beverages II, p. 22, DSR 1996:I, p. 97 at 114–115

(WT/DS8/AB/R, WT/DS10/AB/R, WT/DS11/AB/R)

Uniform classification in tariff nomenclatures based on the Harmonized System (the “HS”) was recognized in GATT 1947 practice as providing a useful basis for confirming “likeness” in products. However, there is a major difference between tariff classification nomenclature and tariff bindings or concessions made by Members of the WTO under Article of the GATT 1994.…

…tariff bindings that include a wide range of products are not a reliable criterion for determining or confirming product “likeness” under Article III:2.

H.1.2 EC – Computer Equipment, paras. 89–90

(WT/DS62/AB/R, WT/DS67/AB/R, WT/DS68/AB/R)

… We believe, however, that a proper interpretation of Schedule LXXX should have included an examination of the Harmonized System and its Explanatory Notes.

… we consider that in interpreting the tariff concessions in Schedule LXXX, decisions of the WCO may be relevant …

H.1.3 EC – Chicken Cuts, para. 195

(WT/DS269/AB/R, WT/DS286/AB/R, WT/DS269/AB/R/Corr.1, WT/DS286/AB/R/Corr.1)

The Harmonized System is not, formally, part of the WTO Agreement, as it has not been incorporated, in whole or in part, into that Agreement. Nevertheless, the concept of “context”, under Article 31, is not limited to the treaty text – namely, the WTO Agreement – but may also extend to “any agreement relating to the treaty which was made between all the parties in connection with the conclusion of the treaty”, within the meaning of Article 31(2)(a) of the Vienna Convention, and to “any instrument which was made by one or more parties in connection with the conclusion of the treaty and accepted by the other parties as an instrument related to the treaty”, within the meaning of Article 31(2)(b) of the Vienna Convention.…

H.1.4 EC – Chicken Cuts, paras. 197–199

(WT/DS269/AB/R, WT/DS286/AB/R, WT/DS269/AB/R/Corr.1, WT/DS286/AB/R/Corr.1)

We note that, in 1983, the GATT Contracting Parties took a Decision setting out guidelines and “special procedures” to facilitate the “wide adoption of the Harmonized System”; later, in 1991, they took a Decision on Procedures to Implement Changes in the Harmonized System.