Product classification
HS code for Cassette player: 8519.89
Sound recording or reproducing apparatus, n.e.c. in heading no 8519.
Classification of cassette player under HS 8519.89
Cassette players are classified under HS code 8519.89, which serves as the category for sound recording or reproducing apparatus not elsewhere specified (n.e.c.) within heading 8519. While many modern digital devices fall under 8519.81 due to their use of semiconductor or optical media, traditional analog cassette players that do not incorporate a radio or a recording function are often placed in this residual category. The classification depends on the primary function of the device as a sound reproducer. In the context of international trade, this code encompasses standalone units designed to read audio signals from magnetic tapes. Even though magnetic media is mentioned in other subheadings, the specific configuration of older analog playback technology often leads to its placement under 8519.89 to differentiate it from high-tech digital recording equipment and optical disc players.
- Covers
- Portable analog cassette players (Walkman-style)
- Standalone home audio cassette decks
- Microcassette players for transcription
- Cassette-based sound reproducing units
- Analog tape playback devices without tuners
- Also under 8519.89
- Olympus DS-9500 (digital dictation, but if analog or very specific)
- vintage phonographs
- specialized sound art installations
- unique audio playback devices for museums
Codes often confused with 8519.89
Common mistake. The most common misclassification occurs with HS code 8527.13, which covers cassette players that include a built-in radio receiver. If the device can receive radio broadcasts, it must be moved to Chapter 8527. Another common error is using 8519.81, which is reserved for apparatus using magnetic, optical, or semiconductor media in a digital format. Importers must distinguish between purely analog playback and digital processing to ensure the correct application of 8519.89.
Top exporters and importers of HS 851989 (the code used for cassette player), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 851989 (the code used for cassette player) in UN Comtrade data was the Netherlands, with 27% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the Netherlands, with 17% 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 851989, not only cassette player.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 Netherlands $328M 27% of world exports
- 2 China $184M 15% of world exports
- 3 Vietnam* ~$162M 13% of world exports · partner records ↗
World total: $1.2B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 Netherlands $202M 17% of world imports
- 2 Germany $141M 12% of world imports
- 3 United Kingdom $97M 8.1% of world imports
World total: $1.2B 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 cassette player
Brazil classifies cassette player under NCM 8519.89.00: HS 8519.89 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about cassette player
What is the HS code for Cassette player?
The HS code for Cassette player is 851989 (Sound recording or reproducing apparatus; n.e.c. in heading no 8519). The standard HS code for a standalone analog cassette player is 8519.89.
How do I classify Cassette player for customs?
Cassette player is classified under HS code 851989 — Sound recording or reproducing apparatus; n.e.c. in heading no 8519. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is a car cassette player classified here?
No, car cassette players are typically classified under HS code 8527.21 if they are combined with a radio receiver, as is standard for automotive head units.
Which countries are the top exporters of cassette player (HS 851989)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 851989 (the code used for cassette player) in UN Comtrade data were the Netherlands ($328M, 27% of world exports), China ($184M) and Vietnam (about $162M). World exports came to about $1.2B, 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 cassette player (HS 851989)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 851989 (the code used for cassette player) in UN Comtrade data were the Netherlands ($202M, 17% of world imports), Germany ($141M) and the United Kingdom ($97M). World imports came to about $1.2B, 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 Cassette player the same in all countries?
The base HS code 851989 for Cassette player 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 cassette player in Brazil?
In Brazil, cassette player (HS 851989) is classified under NCM 8519.89.00.