Product classification
HS code for Function generator: 8543.20
Electrical machines and apparatus, signal generators.
Classification of function generator under HS 8543.20
Function generators are classified under HS code 8543.20 because they are specifically defined as signal generators within the nomenclature of electrical machinery. Heading 8543 covers electrical machines and apparatus having individual functions, not specified or included elsewhere in Chapter 85. Subheading 8543.20 is the specific provision for signal generators, which are instruments that produce electrical signals with periodic waveforms, such as sine, square, and triangular waves. These devices are essential in electronics testing, troubleshooting, and circuit design. The classification is determined by the primary function of the device: the generation of a signal rather than the measurement of one. Even if the device includes a small display for monitoring the output, its essential character remains that of a generator. According to the General Rules of Interpretation (GRI 1), classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Since signal generators are explicitly named in 8543.20, this code takes precedence over more general headings.
- Covers
- Sine wave generators
- Square wave generators
- Pulse generators
- Arbitrary waveform generators (AWG)
- Function generator modules for modular systems
- Sweep generators
- Also under 8543.20
- Keysight 33500B
- Rohde & Schwarz SMB100A
- Tektronix AFG31000
- Anritsu MG3710A
- National Instruments PXIe-5450
- Rigol DG800 series
Codes often confused with 8543.20
Common mistake. Function generators are frequently misclassified under HS code 9030. This heading covers oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, and other instruments for measuring or checking electrical quantities. While function generators are often used alongside these tools, they generate signals rather than measure them. Another common error is using 8543.70, which is a residual category for other electrical machines; however, because 8543.20 specifically names signal generators, the more specific code must be used.
Top exporters and importers of HS 854320 (the code used for function generator), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 854320 (the code used for function generator) in UN Comtrade data was Japan, with 17% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was China, with 14% 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 854320, not only function generator.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 Japan $380M 17% of world exports
- 2 Malaysia $293M 13% of world exports
- 3 Germany $277M 12% of world exports
World total: $2.2B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 China $262M 14% of world imports
- 2 Ukraine* ~$245M 13% of world imports · partner records ↗
- 3 United States $141M 7.3% of world imports
World total: $1.9B 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 function generator
Brazil classifies function generator under NCM 8543.20.00: HS 8543.20 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about function generator
What is the HS code for Function generator?
The HS code for Function generator is 854320 (Electrical machines and apparatus; signal generators). The HS code for a function generator is 8543.20, which specifically covers signal generators.
How do I classify Function generator for customs?
Function generator is classified under HS code 854320 — Electrical machines and apparatus; signal generators. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is a function generator considered a measuring instrument?
No, for customs purposes, it is classified as a signal generator under 8543.20 because its primary purpose is to produce an electrical signal, not to measure or analyze an existing one.
Which countries are the top exporters of function generator (HS 854320)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 854320 (the code used for function generator) in UN Comtrade data were Japan ($380M, 17% of world exports), Malaysia ($293M) and Germany ($277M). 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 function generator (HS 854320)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 854320 (the code used for function generator) in UN Comtrade data were China ($262M, 14% of world imports), Ukraine (about $245M) and the United States ($141M). World imports came to about $1.9B, 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 Function generator the same in all countries?
The base HS code 854320 for Function generator 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 function generator in Brazil?
In Brazil, function generator (HS 854320) is classified under NCM 8543.20.00.