Product classification
HS code for CD player: 8519.81
Sound recording or reproducing apparatus, using magnetic, optical or semiconductor media, n.e.c. in item no 8519.20, 8519.30 or 8519.50.
Classification of CD player under HS 8519.81
The classification of a CD player under HS code 8519.81 is based on its primary function as a sound reproducing apparatus that utilizes optical media. Chapter 85 covers electrical machinery and equipment, and heading 8519 specifically addresses sound recording or reproducing apparatus. Within this heading, the system differentiates between apparatus using different types of media. Subheading 8519.81 includes devices that use magnetic, optical, or semiconductor media. Since a Compact Disc (CD) is an optical storage medium, a standalone CD player or a CD transport mechanism falls squarely into this category. This code applies to both portable units and components designed for home audio systems. The classification is determined by GRI 1, which looks at the heading text, and GRI 6, which looks at the subheading level. It is important to note that the device must be primarily for sound; if it includes a video display or can play DVD/Blu-ray video, the classification shifts to heading 8521.
- Covers
- Standalone CD players
- Portable CD players (Discman style)
- CD transport mechanisms for audio systems
- Compact disc players without built-in speakers
- Audio-only CD players for rack mounting
- Also under 8519.81
- Sony Walkman (digital models)
- Tascam DR-40X
- FiiO M11 Plus LTD
- Marantz CD6007
- Zoom H4n Pro
- Astell&Kern A&ultima SP2000T
Codes often confused with 8519.81
Common mistake. CD players are often misclassified under HS code 8527.13 or 8527.91 if they are combined with a radio receiver. If the device is capable of reproducing video from an optical disc, it must be classified under HS code 8521.90. Additionally, automotive CD players that are part of a car stereo unit are typically classified under 8527.21 rather than 8519.81.
Top exporters and importers of HS 851981 (the code used for CD player), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 851981 (the code used for CD player) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 42% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 31% 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 851981, not only CD player.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $905M 42% of world exports
- 2 Vietnam* ~$469M 22% of world exports · partner records ↗
- 3 Hong Kong $202M 9.2% of world exports
World total: $2.2B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $756M 31% of world imports
- 2 Germany $262M 11% of world imports
- 3 Hong Kong $176M 7.1% of world imports
World total: $2.5B 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 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 codes for CD player
Brazil splits HS 8519.81 into 3 NCM codes. Pick the one that matches your product:
- 8519.81.10CD players (laser optical reading)
- 8519.81.20Aircraft cockpit sound recorders
- 8519.81.90Other audio recorders/players using storage media
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about CD player
What is the HS code for CD player?
The HS code for CD player is 851981 (Sound recording or reproducing apparatus; using magnetic, optical or semiconductor media, n.e.c. in item no 8519.20, 8519.30 or 8519.50). The HS code for a standalone sound-reproducing CD player is 8519.81.
How do I classify CD player for customs?
CD player is classified under HS code 851981 — Sound recording or reproducing apparatus; using magnetic, optical or semiconductor media, n.e.c. in item no 8519.20, 8519.30 or 8519.50. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Does this code include DVD players?
No, DVD players are capable of video reproduction and are classified under HS code 8521.90.
Which countries are the top exporters of CD player (HS 851981)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 851981 (the code used for CD player) in UN Comtrade data were China ($905M, 42% of world exports), Vietnam (about $469M) and Hong Kong ($202M). World exports came to about $2.2B, 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 CD player (HS 851981)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 851981 (the code used for CD player) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($756M, 31% of world imports), Germany ($262M) and Hong Kong ($176M). World imports came to about $2.5B, 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 CD player the same in all countries?
The base HS code 851981 for CD 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 CD player in Brazil?
Brazil splits HS 851981 into 3 NCM codes, so the right one for CD player depends on the product's details: 8519.81.10 (CD players (laser optical reading)), 8519.81.20 (Aircraft cockpit sound recorders), 8519.81.90 (Other audio recorders/players using storage media).