Product classification
HS code for Calculators: 9017.20
Drawing, marking-out or mathematical calculating instruments.
Classification of calculators under HS 9017.20
Calculators, specifically those defined as mathematical calculating instruments, are classified under HS code 9017.20. This classification is part of Chapter 90, which covers optical, photographic, cinematographic, measuring, checking, precision, medical or surgical instruments and apparatus. Heading 9017 includes drawing, marking-out, or mathematical calculating instruments. While electronic calculators are typically found in Chapter 84, subheading 9017.20 is reserved for non-electronic mathematical calculating instruments. This includes traditional tools such as slide rules, disc calculators, and mathematical calculating cylinders. These instruments function based on logarithmic scales or geometric principles rather than electronic circuitry. The classification is determined by GRI 1 and the specific descriptions provided in the Explanatory Notes to heading 9017. To be classified here, the instrument must be designed for performing mathematical calculations through physical movement or measurement scales. This code is essential for specialized engineering and educational tools that do not rely on digital processing.
- Covers
- Slide rules (linear or circular)
- Mathematical calculating discs
- Cylindrical calculating rules
- Non-electronic mathematical scales for calculation
- Also under 9017.20
- Staedtler Mars Professional Compass
- Faber-Castell Protractor
- Helix Oxford Maths Set
- Alvin Drafting Templates
- Pickett Slide Rule
Codes often confused with 9017.20
Common mistake. The most common misclassification for calculators is HS code 8470.10, which covers electronic calculators capable of operation without an external source of electric power. Most modern handheld calculators belong in 8470.10. Another error is 9017.30, which covers micrometers and calipers; while these are measuring instruments, they are not designed for mathematical calculation in the same way a slide rule is.
Top exporters and importers of HS 901720 (the code used for calculators), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 901720 (the code used for calculators) in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 35% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 14% 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 901720, not only calculators.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 United States $171M 35% of world exports
- 2 China $163M 34% of world exports
- 3 Germany $44M 9.0% of world exports
World total: $485M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $57M 14% of world imports
- 2 United Arab Emirates* ~$31M 7.7% of world imports · partner records ↗
- 3 Germany $31M 7.6% of world imports
World total: $402M 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 marked * did not, so their figures add up what other countries recorded trading with them, and their exports are valued at buyers' CIF prices. 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 calculators
Brazil classifies calculators under NCM 9017.20.00: HS 9017.20 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about calculators
What is the HS code for Calculators?
The HS code for Calculators is 901720 (Drawing, marking-out or mathematical calculating instruments).
How do I classify Calculators for customs?
Calculators is classified under HS code 901720 — Drawing, marking-out or mathematical calculating instruments. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
What is the HS code for a slide rule?
A slide rule is classified under HS code 9017.20 as a mathematical calculating instrument.
Does 9017.20 include digital calculators?
No, digital or electronic calculators are classified under heading 8470. HS code 9017.20 is specifically for non-electronic mathematical calculating tools.
Which countries are the top exporters of calculators (HS 901720)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 901720 (the code used for calculators) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($171M, 35% of world exports), China ($163M) and Germany ($44M). World exports came to about $485M, 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 calculators (HS 901720)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 901720 (the code used for calculators) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($57M, 14% of world imports), the United Arab Emirates (about $31M) and Germany ($31M). World imports came to about $402M, 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 Calculators the same in all countries?
The base HS code 901720 for Calculators 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 calculators in Brazil?
In Brazil, calculators (HS 901720) is classified under NCM 9017.20.00.