Product classification
HS code for Audio amplifier: 8518.40
Amplifiers, audio-frequency electric.
Classification of audio amplifier under HS 8518.40
An audio amplifier is classified under HS code 851840, which specifically covers "Amplifiers; audio-frequency electric." This classification is found in Chapter 85 of the Harmonized System, dedicated to electrical machinery and equipment and parts thereof. The crucial aspect for this classification is the amplifier's primary function: to increase the power of an audio signal. This subheading distinguishes audio-frequency amplifiers from other types of amplifiers, such as radio-frequency or video amplifiers, which serve different purposes and are classified elsewhere. The 'electric' descriptor further clarifies that these are electronic devices designed to operate with electrical signals, converting low-power audio signals into higher-power signals capable of driving loudspeakers or other audio output devices.
- Covers
- Stereo power amplifiers
- Integrated audio amplifiers
- Pre-amplifiers for audio systems
- Guitar amplifiers (audio output section)
- Public address system amplifiers
- Home theater audio receivers with amplification
- Also under 8518.40
- Marantz PM8006
- Yamaha A-S801
- Fender '65 Twin Reverb
- Sonos Amp
- JL Audio XD600/6v2
Codes often confused with 8518.40
Common mistake. Audio amplifiers can be commonly misclassified with other electrical apparatus. For example, if an amplifier is sold as part of a complete sound amplification set, it might be classified under HS 851850, which covers "Electric sound amplifier sets." Amplifiers not primarily designed for audio frequency, such as radio-frequency (RF) amplifiers or video amplifiers, would fall under different headings, often HS 854370 for "Other electrical machines and apparatus, having individual functions." Furthermore, network-enabled audio devices that include amplification but whose primary function is data transmission or reception might be classified under HS 851762. The key distinction lies in the primary function and whether the amplifier is a standalone unit or part of a larger, functionally integrated system.
Top exporters and importers of HS 851840 (the code used for audio amplifier), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 851840 (the code used for audio amplifier) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 28% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 25% 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 851840, not only audio amplifier.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $1.3B 28% of world exports
- 2 Mexico $658M 14% of world exports
- 3 United States $572M 13% of world exports
World total: $4.5B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $1.1B 25% of world imports
- 2 Germany $479M 11% of world imports
- 3 Japan $372M 8.4% of world imports
World total: $4.5B 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 audio amplifier
Brazil classifies audio amplifier under NCM 8518.40.00: HS 8518.40 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about audio amplifier
What is the HS code for Audio amplifier?
The HS code for Audio amplifier is 851840 (Amplifiers; audio-frequency electric). The HS code for an audio-frequency electric amplifier is 851840.
How do I classify Audio amplifier for customs?
Audio amplifier is classified under HS code 851840 — Amplifiers; audio-frequency electric. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Are all amplifiers classified under 851840?
No, only audio-frequency electric amplifiers are classified under 851840. Other types, such as RF amplifiers or those integrated into complete sound sets, are classified under different HS codes.
Which countries are the top exporters of audio amplifier (HS 851840)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 851840 (the code used for audio amplifier) in UN Comtrade data were China ($1.3B, 28% of world exports), Mexico ($658M) and the United States ($572M). World exports came to about $4.5B, 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 audio amplifier (HS 851840)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 851840 (the code used for audio amplifier) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($1.1B, 25% of world imports), Germany ($479M) and Japan ($372M). World imports came to about $4.5B, 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 Audio amplifier the same in all countries?
The base HS code 851840 for Audio amplifier 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 audio amplifier in Brazil?
In Brazil, audio amplifier (HS 851840) is classified under NCM 8518.40.00.