About HS Code 848610
This HS code encompasses the highly specialized machinery used in the foundational stages of semiconductor manufacturing, specifically for creating silicon boules and wafers. These machines are critical for preparing the raw material that forms the basis of all integrated circuits. International trade in these goods is dominated by a few high-tech nations and companies, primarily supplying to major semiconductor fabrication plants (fabs) globally. Importers are typically countries with advanced semiconductor industries, such as Taiwan, South Korea, and the USA, while exporters are often Japan, the USA, and European nations. Key considerations in this trade include extreme precision, ultra-clean environments, high capital investment, and the strategic importance of these technologies for national economies and technological sovereignty. The equipment's complexity and proprietary nature make it a high-value, low-volume trade segment.
Products Under This Code
Crystal pullers, Wafer slicing machines, Wafer grinding machines, Wafer polishing machines, Epitaxy reactors, Chemical vapor deposition (CVD) systems for wafers, Annealing furnaces for boules
Real World Examples
Applied Materials Centura, Tokyo Electron (TEL) Clean Track, Lam Research Kiyo, ASM International A400, DISCO DFG8540
Common Misclassification
This code can be confused with 848620 (semiconductor device manufacturing) if the distinction between raw wafer preparation and actual device fabrication on the wafer is not clearly understood. It's also distinct from 848690 which covers parts.
Products Classified Under 8486.10
Industry
This code belongs to the Electronics & Electrical Equipment industry.
Trade Overview
Top importers and exporters include Taiwan, South Korea, Japan, USA, and China, reflecting major semiconductor hubs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is HS code 848610?
HS code 848610 covers: Machines and apparatus of a kind used solely or principally for the manufacture of semiconductor boules or wafers. This HS code encompasses the highly specialized machinery used in the foundational stages of semiconductor manufacturing, specifically for creating silicon boules and wafers. These machines are critical for preparing the raw material that forms the basis of all integrated circuits. International trade in these goods is dominated by a few high-tech nations and companies, primarily supplying to major semiconductor fabrication plants (fabs) globally. Importers are typically countries with advanced semiconductor industries, such as Taiwan, South Korea, and the USA, while exporters are often Japan, the USA, and European nations. Key considerations in this trade include extreme precision, ultra-clean environments, high capital investment, and the strategic importance of these technologies for national economies and technological sovereignty. The equipment's complexity and proprietary nature make it a high-value, low-volume trade segment.
What products fall under HS code 848610?
Crystal pullers, Wafer slicing machines, Wafer grinding machines, Wafer polishing machines, Epitaxy reactors, Chemical vapor deposition (CVD) systems for wafers, Annealing furnaces for boules
What are common misclassifications for HS code 848610?
This code can be confused with 848620 (semiconductor device manufacturing) if the distinction between raw wafer preparation and actual device fabrication on the wafer is not clearly understood. It's also distinct from 848690 which covers parts.
How is HS code 848610 structured?
HS code 848610 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (84) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (86) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (10) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.