Product classification
HS code for Laser: 9013.20
Lasers, other than laser diodes.
Classification of laser under HS 9013.20
The classification of lasers under HS code 901320 is determined by their function as optical instruments that produce or amplify electromagnetic radiation through stimulated emission. According to the General Rules for the Interpretation of the Harmonized System (GRI), products are classified based on their technical characteristics and intended use. Heading 9013 specifically encompasses lasers, other than laser diodes, which are treated as separate electronic components. This code applies to the laser device itself when it is presented as a standalone unit or as a component that has not yet been integrated into a specific functional machine, such as a medical device or a cutting tool. The distinction is crucial because once a laser is incorporated into a specialized apparatus, the classification typically shifts to the heading of that apparatus. However, for the laser source as an independent optical instrument, 901320 remains the primary designation for international trade and customs purposes.
- Covers
- Gas lasers (e.g., HeNe, CO2 lasers)
- Liquid lasers (dye lasers)
- Solid-state lasers (e.g., Ruby, Nd:YAG)
- Chemical lasers
- Laser systems for laboratory research
- Also under 9013.20
- IPG Photonics fiber lasers
- Trumpf TruDisk lasers
- Coherent excimer lasers
- Spectra-Physics solid-state lasers
- Rofin-Sinar CO2 lasers
Codes often confused with 9013.20
Common mistake. A frequent error is classifying laser diodes under 901320. Laser diodes are specifically classified under HS code 854141 as semiconductor devices. Additionally, if the laser is part of a specific machine tool, it should be classified with that machine. For example, laser cutting machines fall under 845611 and laser welding machines under 851580. Misclassifying a component as a complete machine can lead to significant duty discrepancies.
Top exporters and importers of HS 901320 (the code used for laser), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 901320 (the code used for laser) in UN Comtrade data was Germany, with 26% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was China, with 23% 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 901320, not only laser.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 Germany $2.0B 26% of world exports
- 2 United States $1.4B 18% of world exports
- 3 China $834M 11% of world exports
World total: $7.5B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 China $1.7B 23% of world imports
- 2 United States $1.0B 14% of world imports
- 3 Germany $771M 10% of world imports
World total: $7.6B 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 laser
Brazil classifies laser under NCM 9013.20.00: HS 9013.20 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about laser
What is the HS code for Laser?
The HS code for Laser is 901320 (Lasers; other than laser diodes). The HS code for lasers, other than laser diodes, is 901320.
How do I classify Laser for customs?
Laser is classified under HS code 901320 — Lasers; other than laser diodes. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Are laser pointers classified under this code?
Yes, simple laser pointers that function primarily as a laser source are typically classified under 901320, provided they are not integrated into another device like a presentation remote.
Which countries are the top exporters of laser (HS 901320)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 901320 (the code used for laser) in UN Comtrade data were Germany ($2.0B, 26% of world exports), the United States ($1.4B) and China ($834M). World exports came to about $7.5B, 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 laser (HS 901320)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 901320 (the code used for laser) in UN Comtrade data were China ($1.7B, 23% of world imports), the United States ($1.0B) and Germany ($771M). World imports came to about $7.6B, 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.
Is the HS code for Laser the same in all countries?
The base HS code 901320 for Laser 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 laser in Brazil?
In Brazil, laser (HS 901320) is classified under NCM 9013.20.00.