HS Code Subheading

Electronic integrated circuits; processors and controllers, whether or not combined with memories, converters, logic circuits, amplifiers, clock and timing circuits, or other circuits

8542.31 Subheading
Section XVI — Machinery and mechanical appliances; electrical equipment; parts thereof; sound recorders and reproducers, television image and sound recorders and reproducers, and parts and accessories of such articles

About HS Code 854231

This category covers the "brains" of most electronic devices: microprocessors, microcontrollers, and digital signal processors (DSPs). These complex integrated circuits are designed to execute instructions, manage operations, and process data, often incorporating various other functionalities like memory or I/O controllers on a single chip. The global trade in these components is immense, with major importers being countries with vast electronics manufacturing capabilities, such as China, Vietnam, Mexico, and the EU, where they are assembled into computers, smartphones, automotive systems, and industrial equipment. Leading exporters are nations with advanced semiconductor design and fabrication industries, notably Taiwan, South Korea, and the USA. Key considerations in this trade include processing power, energy efficiency, architecture (e.g., ARM, x86), and specialized functionalities for AI, IoT, or automotive applications. The market is highly competitive and driven by rapid technological advancements and demand for smarter, more connected devices.

Products Under This Code

Microprocessors (CPUs), Microcontrollers (MCUs), Digital Signal Processors (DSPs), Graphics Processing Units (GPUs), System-on-Chips (SoCs), Application-Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs) for processing, Embedded controllers

Real World Examples

Intel Core i9, AMD Ryzen 7, Apple M1, Qualcomm Snapdragon, NVIDIA Jetson, Raspberry Pi RP2040, STMicroelectronics STM32

Common Misclassification

Often confused with memory ICs (854232) or other general-purpose ICs (854239), but 854231 specifically targets ICs primarily functioning as processors or controllers.

Products Classified Under 8542.31

Industry

This code belongs to the Electronics & Electrical Equipment industry.

Trade Overview

China, USA, and Germany are major importers; Taiwan, South Korea, and USA are key exporters.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is HS code 854231?

HS code 854231 covers: Electronic integrated circuits; processors and controllers, whether or not combined with memories, converters, logic circuits, amplifiers, clock and timing circuits, or other circuits. This category covers the "brains" of most electronic devices: microprocessors, microcontrollers, and digital signal processors (DSPs). These complex integrated circuits are designed to execute instructions, manage operations, and process data, often incorporating various other functionalities like memory or I/O controllers on a single chip. The global trade in these components is immense, with major importers being countries with vast electronics manufacturing capabilities, such as China, Vietnam, Mexico, and the EU, where they are assembled into computers, smartphones, automotive systems, and industrial equipment. Leading exporters are nations with advanced semiconductor design and fabrication industries, notably Taiwan, South Korea, and the USA. Key considerations in this trade include processing power, energy efficiency, architecture (e.g., ARM, x86), and specialized functionalities for AI, IoT, or automotive applications. The market is highly competitive and driven by rapid technological advancements and demand for smarter, more connected devices.

What products fall under HS code 854231?

Microprocessors (CPUs), Microcontrollers (MCUs), Digital Signal Processors (DSPs), Graphics Processing Units (GPUs), System-on-Chips (SoCs), Application-Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs) for processing, Embedded controllers

What are common misclassifications for HS code 854231?

Often confused with memory ICs (854232) or other general-purpose ICs (854239), but 854231 specifically targets ICs primarily functioning as processors or controllers.

How is HS code 854231 structured?

HS code 854231 is a 6-digit subheading under the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (85) identify the chapter, digits 3-4 (42) identify the heading, and digits 5-6 (31) specify the subheading. This code is standardized globally by the World Customs Organization.