Product classification
HS code for E-waste: 8549.99
Waste and scrap, n.e.c. in item no 8549.91.
Classification of E-waste under HS 8549.99
The classification of electrical and electronic waste (e-waste) under HS code 8549.99 is determined by the 2022 amendments to the Harmonized System nomenclature. This code specifically addresses waste and scrap of electrical and electronic assemblies that do not contain primary cells, batteries, mercury-switches, or other hazardous components specified in the more restrictive subheadings of 8549. Heading 8549 was created to provide a dedicated space for the growing global trade in electronic scrap, moving it away from generic "other" categories in Chapter 85 or Chapter 71. Classification here requires that the product is no longer fit for its original purpose and is intended for recovery of materials or disposal. It covers a broad range of non-hazardous electronic debris that does not fit into the specific categories for lead-acid batteries or mercury-containing waste. The classification is based on the principle that the item is being traded as waste rather than as a functional or repairable electronic device.
- Covers
- Discarded computer motherboards without batteries
- Broken household appliances (toasters, kettles) without hazardous fluids
- Shredded electronic scrap for metal recovery
- Defective telecommunication equipment components
- Old circuit boards stripped of hazardous components
- Also under 8549.99
- Shredded electronic waste residue
- mixed plastic casings from electronics
- general electronic waste for landfill or incineration
- low-grade mixed circuit board fragments
Codes often confused with 8549.99
Common mistake. E-waste is frequently misclassified under 8549.11 through 8549.19 if the exporter fails to identify the presence of batteries or mercury. Furthermore, it is often confused with 7112.91, which covers waste and scrap of precious metals. If the e-waste is being imported specifically for its gold or silver content and has been processed into a powder or ash, 7112 is more appropriate. Additionally, functional second-hand electronics should be classified under their respective headings (e.g., 8471 for computers) rather than 8549.
Top exporters and importers of HS 854999 (the code used for E-waste), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 854999 (the code used for E-waste) in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 21% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was South Korea, with 30% 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 854999, not only E-waste.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 United States $45M 21% of world exports
- 2 Netherlands $21M 9.9% of world exports
- 3 France $21M 9.7% of world exports
World total: $213M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 South Korea $48M 30% of world imports
- 2 Netherlands $16M 9.7% of world imports
- 3 South Africa $16M 9.6% of world imports
World total: $163M 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 E-waste
Brazil classifies E-waste under NCM 8549.99.00: HS 8549.99 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about E-waste
What is the HS code for E-waste?
The HS code for E-waste is 854999 (Waste and scrap; n.e.c. in item no 8549.91). The primary HS code for general non-hazardous electrical and electronic waste is 8549.99.
How do I classify E-waste for customs?
E-waste is classified under HS code 854999 — Waste and scrap; n.e.c. in item no 8549.91. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Does this code cover lithium batteries?
No, waste lithium-ion batteries are specifically classified under 8549.19, as 8549.99 is reserved for waste not containing such cells.
Which countries are the top exporters of E-waste (HS 854999)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 854999 (the code used for E-waste) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($45M, 21% of world exports), the Netherlands ($21M) and France ($21M). World exports came to about $213M, 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 E-waste (HS 854999)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 854999 (the code used for E-waste) in UN Comtrade data were South Korea ($48M, 30% of world imports), the Netherlands ($16M) and South Africa ($16M). World imports came to about $163M, 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 E-waste the same in all countries?
The base HS code 854999 for E-waste 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 E-waste in Brazil?
In Brazil, E-waste (HS 854999) is classified under NCM 8549.99.00.