Sourcing foam sheet and plastic laminates from China
Plastic foam sheet and boards from China, in PVC, polyurethane, polyethylene or polystyrene, and laminated sheet such as high-pressure laminates, pays 6% UK duty, with no anti-dumping duty. Insulation foam is a construction product, and fire performance matters for any building use. Cambridge China Bridge sources them.
Plastic foam sheet in PVC, PU, PE and PS, high-pressure laminates and reinforced plastic sheet pay 6% UK duty from China. Insulation and fire rules explained.
A flat 6%
Read from the UK Trade Tariff on 25 September 2026, cellular plates, sheets, film and strip of polystyrene, PVC, polyurethane, regenerated cellulose and other plastics, and other plastic sheet of heading 3921 such as corrugated sheet and high-pressure laminates, carried 6% duty on goods from China, with no anti-dumping measure.
Non-cellular, unreinforced film and sheet are in heading 3920, covered in the plastic film guide. Confirm the commodity code.
| Goods | Commodity code | Duty | Anti-dumping duty on China |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cellular polystyrene sheet, other | 3921 11 00 90 | 6% | None |
| Cellular PVC sheet, other | 3921 12 00 90 | 6% | None |
| Cellular polyurethane sheet, flexible | 3921 13 10 00 | 6% | None |
| Cellular polyurethane sheet, other | 3921 13 90 00 | 6% | None |
| Other cellular plastic sheet | 3921 19 00 99 | 6% | None |
| High-pressure decorative laminates | 3921 90 41 00 | 6% | None |
| Other plastic sheet | 3921 90 90 00 | 6% | None |
Insulation and fire
Foam boards sold as thermal insulation for buildings are construction products under the retained Construction Products Regulation where a designated standard applies, which means a declaration of performance and UKCA or CE marking. Any sheet used in buildings needs fire classification evidence, and the regulations for external walls restrict combustible materials on relevant buildings, so check the end use first.
Specification
Specify polymer, density, thickness and tolerance, cell structure (open or closed), compression strength, colour and any adhesive backing. For laminates, specify core, surface wear class and thickness. Ask for a UK REACH statement on flame retardants and plasticisers.
Inspection
At inspection, measure thickness and density, check sheet flatness and edges, and weigh bales against the invoice.
Cambridge China Bridge sources foam sheet, insulation boards and plastic laminates, with density, fire evidence and marking settled before the order. See how our sourcing service works.
Frequently asked questions
What is the UK import duty on foam sheet from China?
Read from the UK Trade Tariff on 25 September 2026, cellular plastic sheet and other heading 3921 sheet carried 6% duty from China.
Do insulation boards need UKCA marking?
Where a designated standard applies they are construction products needing a declaration of performance and UKCA or CE marking.
Where is plain plastic film classified?
Non-cellular, unreinforced film and sheet are in heading 3920.
Are high-pressure laminates in heading 3921?
Yes. High-pressure decorative laminates carried 6% duty from China.