Import and export declarations for shipments from January 1 must be completed in accordance with the 2007 edition of the Hong Kong Imports & Exports Classification List (Harmonised System), the Customs & Excise Department says.

The amendments mainly involve chemicals, textiles and clothing, machinery and electrical products. The latest edition, gazetted November 10, takes effect on New Year's Day.

The compilation of the new classification list is based on the Harmonised Commodity Description & Coding System, which is designed by the World Customs Organisation. Hong Kong has adopted the system in full since 1992.

A summary of the changes to the list, including conversion lists showing the modified commodity codes, can be found on the Census & Statistics Department website.