Product classification
HS code for DVD player: 8521.90
Video recording or reproducing apparatus, other than magnetic tape-type.
Classification of DVD player under HS 8521.90
The classification of a DVD player under HS code 8521.90 is determined by its primary function as a video reproducing apparatus that does not utilize magnetic tape. According to the General Rules for the Interpretation (GRI) of the Harmonized System, products are classified based on their technical characteristics and intended use. Heading 8521 specifically covers video recording or reproducing apparatus, whether or not incorporating a video tuner. Since DVD players utilize optical disc technology rather than the magnetic tape technology described in subheading 8521.10, they are correctly categorized under the residual subheading 8521.90. This classification applies to devices that can read digital data from an optical disc and convert it into video and audio signals for display on a monitor or television set. The technical distinction between magnetic and non-magnetic media is the primary driver for this specific code assignment. Furthermore, the apparatus must be designed primarily for video; if the device were solely for audio, it would fall under heading 8519. The inclusion of internal circuitry for decoding MPEG-2 or other digital video formats is a hallmark of the 8521.90 classification, distinguishing it from simpler optical drive units found in computers.
- Covers
- Standalone DVD players
- DVD recorders with internal hard drives
- Portable DVD players with integrated LCD screens
- Blu-ray disc players
- Combo units where the DVD function is the primary video component
- Also under 8521.90
- Sony UBP-X700 Blu-ray Player
- Apple TV 4K
- Roku Ultra
- TiVo Edge
- Blackmagic Design HyperDeck Studio Mini
- NVIDIA Shield TV Pro
Codes often confused with 8521.90
Common mistake. DVD players are frequently confused with HS code 8521.10, which is strictly reserved for magnetic tape-type recording or reproducing apparatus, such as VCRs. Another common error is classifying them under 8471.70 as storage units; however, this only applies if the unit is an internal component of an automatic data processing machine. Additionally, portable players with screens are sometimes incorrectly placed in 8528.72 (television reception apparatus), but if the primary purpose is playing recorded media, 8521.90 remains the correct classification.
Top exporters and importers of HS 852190 (the code used for DVD player), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 852190 (the code used for DVD player) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 56% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 16% 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 852190, not only DVD player.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $2.0B 56% of world exports
- 2 United States $184M 5.1% of world exports
- 3 Vietnam* ~$172M 4.8% of world exports · partner records ↗
World total: $3.6B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $439M 16% of world imports
- 2 Japan $262M 9.3% of world imports
- 3 United Kingdom $183M 6.5% of world imports
World total: $2.8B 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 DVD player
Brazil classifies DVD player under NCM 8521.90.00: HS 8521.90 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about DVD player
What is the HS code for DVD player?
The HS code for DVD player is 852190 (Video recording or reproducing apparatus; other than magnetic tape-type). The standard HS code for a DVD player is 8521.90, which covers video recording or reproducing apparatus other than magnetic tape-type.
How do I classify DVD player for customs?
DVD player is classified under HS code 852190 — Video recording or reproducing apparatus; other than magnetic tape-type. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Does this code include Blu-ray players?
Yes, Blu-ray players are classified under 8521.90 because they function as video reproducing apparatus using optical disc technology rather than magnetic tape.
Which countries are the top exporters of DVD player (HS 852190)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 852190 (the code used for DVD player) in UN Comtrade data were China ($2.0B, 56% of world exports), the United States ($184M) and Vietnam (about $172M). World exports came to about $3.6B, 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 DVD player (HS 852190)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 852190 (the code used for DVD player) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($439M, 16% of world imports), Japan ($262M) and the United Kingdom ($183M). World imports came to about $2.8B, 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 DVD player the same in all countries?
The base HS code 852190 for DVD 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 DVD player in Brazil?
In Brazil, DVD player (HS 852190) is classified under NCM 8521.90.00.