HS Code Subheading

Rubber; vulcanised (other than hard rubber), hygienic or pharmaceutical articles (excluding sheath contraceptives), with or without fittings of hard rubber

4014.90 Subheading
Section VII — Plastics and articles thereof; rubber and articles thereof

About HS Code 401490

This HS code encompasses a broad category of vulcanised rubber articles used for hygienic or pharmaceutical purposes, explicitly excluding sheath contraceptives (401410). This includes items like hot water bottles, ice bags, enema bags, certain medical tubing, and other non-surgical rubber goods. International trade is robust, driven by healthcare systems, pharmacies, and consumer markets worldwide. Importers range from hospitals and clinics to retail chains and distributors of medical supplies. Exporters are typically countries with established rubber manufacturing industries, capable of producing specialized medical-grade rubber products. Key considerations in this trade include material safety (e.g., latex allergies), sterilization requirements, durability, and compliance with national and international health regulations. The market is influenced by an aging global population, increasing healthcare expenditure, and advancements in medical technology, leading to a steady demand for reliable and safe rubber articles.

Products Under This Code

Hot water bottles, ice bags, enema bags, rubber bulbs for medical devices, medical tubing (non-surgical), breast pump parts (rubber), rubber bedpans

Real World Examples

Fashy Hot Water Bottle, B. Braun Medical Tubing, Medline Enema Bag, Drive Medical Ice Bag, Philips Avent Breast Pump parts

Common Misclassification

This code is often confused with 4015 (rubber gloves) or 9018 (medical, surgical, dental or veterinary instruments and apparatus) if the rubber article is part of a more complex device. It specifically covers standalone hygienic/pharmaceutical articles of rubber, not instruments.

Products Classified Under 4014.90

Industry

This code belongs to the Automotive & Vehicles industry.

Trade Overview

Top importers include developed nations with advanced healthcare systems, while major exporters are often countries with strong rubber manufacturing capabilities such as China, Germany, and Malaysia.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 401490?

HS code 401490 covers: Rubber; vulcanised (other than hard rubber), hygienic or pharmaceutical articles (excluding sheath contraceptives), with or without fittings of hard rubber. This HS code encompasses a broad category of vulcanised rubber articles used for hygienic or pharmaceutical purposes, explicitly excluding sheath contraceptives (401410). This includes items like hot water bottles, ice bags, enema bags, certain medical tubing, and other non-surgical rubber goods. International trade is robust, driven by healthcare systems, pharmacies, and consumer markets worldwide. Importers range from hospitals and clinics to retail chains and distributors of medical supplies. Exporters are typically countries with established rubber manufacturing industries, capable of producing specialized medical-grade rubber products. Key considerations in this trade include material safety (e.g., latex allergies), sterilization requirements, durability, and compliance with national and international health regulations. The market is influenced by an aging global population, increasing healthcare expenditure, and advancements in medical technology, leading to a steady demand for reliable and safe rubber articles.

What products fall under HS code 401490?

Hot water bottles, ice bags, enema bags, rubber bulbs for medical devices, medical tubing (non-surgical), breast pump parts (rubber), rubber bedpans

What are common misclassifications for HS code 401490?

This code is often confused with 4015 (rubber gloves) or 9018 (medical, surgical, dental or veterinary instruments and apparatus) if the rubber article is part of a more complex device. It specifically covers standalone hygienic/pharmaceutical articles of rubber, not instruments.

How is HS code 401490 structured?

HS code 401490 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (40) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (14) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (90) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.