HS Code 70.09 – Glass mirrors; whether or not framed, including rear-view mirrors

HS code 7009 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Glass mirrors; whether or not framed, including rear-view mirrors. Heading 7009 encompasses 'Glass mirrors; whether or not framed, including rear-view mirrors,' positioning it within Section XIII, Chapter 70, which covers glass and glassware. This classification is broad, covering both functional and decorative mirrors made predominantly of glass. The 'whether or not framed' clause is crucial, indicating that both unframed mirror sheets and finished, framed products fall under this heading. It includes a wide array of mirrors, from large architectural mirrors to small cosmetic ones, and specifically calls out rear-view mirrors, highlighting its relevance to the automotive industry. The scope of 7009 focuses on the silvered or metal-coated glass surface that creates the reflective property. It excludes optical mirrors used in scientific instruments (Chapter 90) and mirrors that are integral parts of furniture (which would typically classify with the furniture). This classification is vital for trade compliance due to varying duties and regulations based on mirror type, size, and intended use (e.g., automotive safety standards). Historically, mirrors have been significant decorative and functional items, and their trade reflects evolving design trends and industrial demands. This heading clarifies that the primary material, glass, and its specific treatment for reflection, is the classifying characteristic, rather than the framing material or the application (unless it's an optical instrument).

Unframed wall mirrors, decorative framed mirrors, bathroom vanity mirrors, full-length dressing mirrors, rear-view mirrors for cars, side-view mirrors for trucks, motorcycle mirrors, blind spot mirrors, surveillance convex mirrors, shaving mirrors (non-magnifying), makeup mirrors (non-magnifying), antique-style mirrors, mirror tiles, security mirrors for shops, dance studio mirrors, gym wall mirrors, bespoke cut mirror panels, ornamental glass mirrors, silvered glass sheets for mirrors, salon mirrors, cheval mirrors, car visor mirrors.

A common misclassification involves confusing unframed mirror sheets with unworked float glass under 7005 ('Float glass and surface ground or polished glass, in sheets'). The key distinction is that 7009 specifically covers glass that has been silvered or otherwise treated to become a mirror. Another error occurs when classifying magnifying mirrors; if they are simple cosmetic mirrors, they might fall here, but if they are optical instruments designed for precise magnification (e.g., certain dentist mirrors or specialized inspection mirrors), they would be classified under Chapter 90, specifically 9005. Mirrors with integrated lighting or complex electrical features might also be misclassified, potentially falling under 9405 (lamps and lighting fittings) if the lighting is the primary function.

In 2025, the top exporters of HS code 7009 in UN Comtrade data were China ($3.1B, 35% of world exports), the United States ($1.7B) and Germany ($784M). World exports came to about $8.8B, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.

In 2025, the top importers of HS code 7009 in UN Comtrade data were Germany ($1.4B, 17% of world imports), the United States ($984M) and Canada ($343M). World imports came to about $8.1B, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.

HS code 7009 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 70 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (70) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (09) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.