Product classification
HS code for Chalkboard: 9610.00
Slates and boards, with writing or drawing surfaces, whether or not framed.
Classification of chalkboard under HS 9610.00
The classification of chalkboards under HS code 9610.00 is determined by their primary function as a writing or drawing surface. This heading specifically covers articles that are prepared for writing with chalk or similar substances, such as slate pencils. The classification applies regardless of whether the boards are framed or unframed, and it encompasses both portable hand-held slates and larger wall-mounted boards used in educational or commercial settings. The material of the writing surface can vary; while traditionally made of natural slate, modern chalkboards often utilize plastic, metal, or wood coated with a specialized matte finish. Under the General Rules of Interpretation (GRI) 1, the heading text specifically names slates and boards with writing or drawing surfaces, making this the most specific classification for these items. The presence of a frame, even if made of a different material like wood or aluminum, does not change the classification, as the frame is considered an accessory to the primary writing surface.
- Covers
- School blackboards and green boards
- Handheld writing slates for children
- Wall-mounted menu boards for restaurants
- Framed chalkboards for home decor
- Portable sidewalk A-frame chalkboards
- Also under 9610.00
- Quartet Whiteboards
- Ghent Boards
- Luxor Mobile Whiteboards
- Smartboard (the physical board surface)
- Bi-Office Chalkboards
Codes often confused with 9610.00
Common mistake. Chalkboards are frequently misclassified under HS code 6803.00, which covers worked slate and articles of natural or agglomerated slate. However, once the slate is specifically prepared with a surface for writing or drawing, it moves to 9610.00. Another common error is classifying framed boards based on the frame material, such as 4421.99 for wooden frames or 7616.99 for aluminum frames. According to the Section Notes, the writing surface provides the essential character, keeping the item in Chapter 96.
Top exporters and importers of HS 961000 (the code used for chalkboard), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 961000 (the code used for chalkboard) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 70% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 18% 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 961000, not only chalkboard.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $525M 70% of world exports
- 2 Netherlands $31M 4.2% of world exports
- 3 Poland $30M 4.0% of world exports
World total: $748M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $120M 18% of world imports
- 2 Philippines $62M 9.6% of world imports
- 3 Germany $55M 8.5% of world imports
World total: $650M 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 chalkboard
Brazil classifies chalkboard under NCM 9610.00.00: HS 9610.00 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about chalkboard
What is the HS code for Chalkboard?
The HS code for Chalkboard is 961000 (Slates and boards; with writing or drawing surfaces, whether or not framed). The HS code for a chalkboard is 9610.00, which covers slates and boards with writing or drawing surfaces.
How do I classify Chalkboard for customs?
Chalkboard is classified under HS code 961000 — Slates and boards; with writing or drawing surfaces, whether or not framed. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Does a chalkboard with a wooden frame change the HS code?
No, framed chalkboards remain under 9610.00 because the writing surface defines the product's primary function and essential character.
Which countries are the top exporters of chalkboard (HS 961000)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 961000 (the code used for chalkboard) in UN Comtrade data were China ($525M, 70% of world exports), the Netherlands ($31M) and Poland ($30M). World exports came to about $748M, 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 chalkboard (HS 961000)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 961000 (the code used for chalkboard) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($120M, 18% of world imports), the Philippines ($62M) and Germany ($55M). World imports came to about $650M, 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 Chalkboard the same in all countries?
The base HS code 961000 for Chalkboard 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 chalkboard in Brazil?
In Brazil, chalkboard (HS 961000) is classified under NCM 9610.00.00.