Product classification
HS code for Artist brushes: 9603.30
Brushes, artists' brushes, writing brushes and similar brushes for the application of cosmetics.
Classification of artist brushes under HS 9603.30
Artist brushes are classified under Harmonized System (HS) code 960330. This specific code is designated for "Brushes; artists' brushes, writing brushes and similar brushes for the application of cosmetics". The description directly identifies brushes intended for artistic applications, such as painting and calligraphy. The inclusion of "similar brushes for the application of cosmetics" indicates that brushes sharing similar design characteristics and intended for precise application, even if for cosmetic use, fall under this same category. This classification is based on the specific function and design tailored for detailed and controlled application of various mediums.
- Covers
- Watercolor brushes
- Oil painting brushes
- Acrylic brushes
- Calligraphy brushes
- Gouache brushes
- Makeup brushes (for cosmetic application)
- Detailing brushes for models or miniatures
- Also under 9603.30
- Winsor & Newton Series 7
- da Vinci Maestro
- Real Techniques brushes
- Sigma Beauty brushes
- MAC Cosmetics brushes
Codes often confused with 9603.30
Common mistake. Artist brushes can sometimes be confused with other types of brushes. HS code 960329 covers "Other toothbrushes, hair brushes, nail brushes, etc.", which are personal care brushes. The key differentiator for 960330 is the explicit mention of "artists' brushes" and brushes for cosmetic application, indicating a specialized use beyond general personal hygiene. Another common misclassification might be with HS code 960390, which covers "Other brushes, e.g., for cleaning, painting, or industrial use". While some general painting brushes might fall under 960390, artist brushes are distinguished by their fine quality, specific shapes, and materials designed for artistic precision, making 960330 the more appropriate classification.
Top exporters and importers of HS 960330 (the code used for artist brushes), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 960330 (the code used for artist brushes) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 38% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 26% of world imports. Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Figures cover everything classified under HS 960330, not only artist brushes.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $299M 38% of world exports
- 2 Germany $103M 13% of world exports
- 3 France $67M 8.5% of world exports
World total: $783M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $289M 26% of world imports
- 2 France $100M 9.1% of world imports
- 3 Germany $60M 5.5% of world imports
World total: $1.1B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
How these figures are built
109 countries reported 2025 trade to UN Comtrade in HS 2022, and their own totals are used. Countries that did not report are estimated from what other countries recorded trading with them. Those estimates miss trade with other non-reporting countries, so they can be low, and a non-reporting country can rank higher than shown or be missing from the list. World totals add both and leave out trade between two non-reporting countries. Figures are in current US dollars; reported imports are mostly valued CIF and exports FOB, and exports include re-exports. The UN Comtrade links show the underlying records; they can also list a few reporters left out here (regional groups and older HS editions).
Source: UN Comtrade (United Nations Statistics Division), 2025 annual data.
Brazil NCM code for artist brushes
Brazil classifies artist brushes under NCM 9603.30.00: HS 9603.30 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about artist brushes
What is the HS code for Artist brushes?
The HS code for Artist brushes is 960330 (Brushes; artists' brushes, writing brushes and similar brushes for the application of cosmetics). The HS code for artist brushes is 960330, which covers artists' brushes, writing brushes, and similar brushes used for the application of cosmetics.
How do I classify Artist brushes for customs?
Artist brushes is classified under HS code 960330 — Brushes; artists' brushes, writing brushes and similar brushes for the application of cosmetics. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Are makeup brushes classified under the same HS code as artist brushes?
Yes, makeup brushes are classified under the same HS code, 960330, because the description explicitly includes "similar brushes for the application of cosmetics," recognizing their shared characteristics with artist brushes in terms of precise application.
Which countries are the top exporters of artist brushes (HS 960330)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 960330 (the code used for artist brushes) in UN Comtrade data were China ($299M, 38% of world exports), Germany ($103M) and France ($67M). World exports came to about $783M, 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.
Which countries are the top importers of artist brushes (HS 960330)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 960330 (the code used for artist brushes) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($289M, 26% of world imports), France ($100M) and Germany ($60M). World imports came to about $1.1B, 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.
Is the HS code for Artist brushes the same in all countries?
The base HS code 960330 for Artist brushes is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.
What is the NCM code for artist brushes in Brazil?
In Brazil, artist brushes (HS 960330) is classified under NCM 9603.30.00.