Product classification
HS code for Grenade launchers: 9301.20
Military weapons, rocket launchers, flame-throwers, grenade launchers, torpedo tubes and similar projectors.
Classification of grenade launchers under HS 9301.20
Grenade launchers are classified under HS code 9301.20 because they are categorized as military weapons designed for combat operations. Chapter 93 of the Harmonized System covers arms and ammunition, with heading 9301 specifically reserved for military weapons other than revolvers, pistols, and the arms of heading 9307. Subheading 9301.20 encompasses heavy military equipment such as rocket launchers, flame-throwers, grenade launchers, torpedo tubes, and similar projectors. The classification is determined by the weapon's design for military use, its caliber, and its mechanism for projecting explosive or incendiary charges. Unlike civilian firearms used for hunting or sport, these devices are engineered for tactical engagement and are subject to stringent international trade regulations and licensing requirements. The classification remains consistent regardless of whether the launcher is man-portable or vehicle-mounted, provided it retains its essential character as a military projector. Customs authorities rely on the General Rules for the Interpretation (GRI) of the Harmonized System, specifically GRI 1, which dictates that classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. Since 9301.20 explicitly mentions grenade launchers, it takes precedence over more general headings.
- Covers
- Man-portable grenade launchers
- Vehicle-mounted grenade projectors
- Under-barrel grenade launcher attachments
- Automatic grenade launchers (AGLs)
- Anti-tank rocket launchers
- Flame-throwing military equipment
- Also under 9301.20
- RPG-7
- Javelin missile system
- AT4
- Mk 48 torpedo tube
- M203 grenade launcher
- Carl Gustaf recoilless rifle
Codes often confused with 9301.20
Common mistake. Grenade launchers are frequently confused with HS code 9303, which covers other firearms and similar devices that operate by the firing of an explosive charge but are not military weapons. This includes signal flare launchers or line-throwing guns. Additionally, parts for these launchers must be classified under 9305.91 rather than 9301.20, as the latter is reserved for complete weapons. Misclassifying a military-grade launcher under 9303 can lead to significant legal issues regarding arms control compliance.
Top exporters and importers of HS 930120 (the code used for grenade launchers), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 930120 (the code used for grenade launchers) in UN Comtrade data was South Korea, with 46% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was Poland, with 58% of world imports. Türkiye reports $4.0B of its chapter 93 exports without product detail (confidential), so it may also belong among the top exporters.
Figures cover everything classified under HS 930120, not only grenade launchers.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 South Korea $435M 46% of world exports
- 2 United States $239M 25% of world exports
- 3 Norway $73M 7.7% of world exports
Türkiye reports $4.0B of its chapter 93 exports without product detail (confidential), so it may also belong among the top exporters.
World total: $942M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 Poland $605M 58% of world imports
- 2 Estonia $75M 7.1% of world imports
- 3 South Korea $65M 6.2% of world imports
World total: $1.0B 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 grenade launchers
Brazil classifies grenade launchers under NCM 9301.20.00: HS 9301.20 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about grenade launchers
What is the HS code for Grenade launchers?
The HS code for Grenade launchers is 930120 (Military weapons; rocket launchers, flame-throwers, grenade launchers, torpedo tubes and similar projectors). The primary HS code for military-grade grenade launchers is 9301.20.
How do I classify Grenade launchers for customs?
Grenade launchers is classified under HS code 930120 — Military weapons; rocket launchers, flame-throwers, grenade launchers, torpedo tubes and similar projectors. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Are civilian flare launchers classified under this code?
No, civilian flare launchers or signaling pistols are typically classified under HS code 9303.30 or 9303.90, as they are not considered military weapons of war.
Which countries are the top exporters of grenade launchers (HS 930120)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 930120 (the code used for grenade launchers) in UN Comtrade data were South Korea ($435M, 46% of world exports), the United States ($239M) and Norway ($73M). World exports came to about $942M, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Türkiye reports $4.0B of its chapter 93 exports without product detail (confidential), so it may also belong among the top exporters.
Which countries are the top importers of grenade launchers (HS 930120)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 930120 (the code used for grenade launchers) in UN Comtrade data were Poland ($605M, 58% of world imports), Estonia ($75M) and South Korea ($65M). World imports came to about $1.0B, 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 Grenade launchers the same in all countries?
The base HS code 930120 for Grenade launchers 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 grenade launchers in Brazil?
In Brazil, grenade launchers (HS 930120) is classified under NCM 9301.20.00.