Product classification
HS code for Microwave: 8516.50
Ovens, microwave, of a kind used for domestic purposes.
Classification of microwave under HS 8516.50
The classification of microwave ovens under HS code 8516.50 is determined by their primary function as electro-thermic appliances designed for domestic use. This code falls within Chapter 85, which covers electrical machinery and equipment. Heading 8516 specifically encompasses electric instantaneous or storage water heaters, immersion heaters, and electro-thermic appliances for domestic purposes. Subheading 8516.50 is dedicated exclusively to microwave ovens. These devices operate by using electromagnetic radiation in the microwave frequency range to heat food and beverages. The classification depends on the appliance being of a kind used for domestic purposes, which is typically determined by its size, capacity, and power requirements. Even if used in a commercial setting like an office breakroom, if the design and technical specifications are intended for household use, it remains under this code. The General Rules for the Interpretation (GRI) of the Harmonized System dictate that products should be classified according to the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. For 8516.50, the domestic nature and the specific heating technology are the defining criteria.
- Covers
- Countertop microwave ovens
- Over-the-range microwave ovens
- Built-in domestic microwave ovens
- Combination microwave-convection ovens for home use
- Compact or portable household microwaves
- Also under 8516.50
- Panasonic NN-SN686S
- Samsung MS19M8000AG
- LG NeoChef
- Whirlpool WMH31017HS
- Toshiba EM925A5A-BS
Codes often confused with 8516.50
Common mistake. Microwave ovens are frequently confused with industrial or commercial ovens. If a microwave is designed for high-volume food production or industrial processes, it should be classified under HS code 8514.20, which covers industrial or laboratory induction or dielectric heating equipment. Additionally, standard electric ovens that do not use microwave technology are classified under HS code 8516.60. It is crucial to distinguish between the heating method (microwave vs. convection/resistance) and the intended environment (domestic vs. industrial) to ensure correct classification.
Top exporters and importers of HS 851650 (the code used for microwave), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 851650 (the code used for microwave) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 71% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 29% 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 851650, not only microwave.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $3.2B 71% of world exports
- 2 Malaysia $427M 9.4% of world exports
- 3 Thailand $206M 4.5% of world exports
World total: $4.5B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $1.4B 29% of world imports
- 2 Japan $424M 8.9% of world imports
- 3 United Kingdom $212M 4.5% of world imports
World total: $4.8B 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 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 microwave
Brazil classifies microwave under NCM 8516.50.00: HS 8516.50 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about microwave
What is the HS code for Microwave?
The HS code for Microwave is 851650 (Ovens; microwave, of a kind used for domestic purposes). The HS code for a domestic microwave oven is 8516.50.
How do I classify Microwave for customs?
Microwave is classified under HS code 851650 — Ovens; microwave, of a kind used for domestic purposes. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Does this code include commercial microwave ovens?
No, commercial or industrial microwave ovens used in large-scale food production are typically classified under HS code 8514.20, as they are considered industrial heating equipment rather than domestic appliances.
Which countries are the top exporters of microwave (HS 851650)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 851650 (the code used for microwave) in UN Comtrade data were China ($3.2B, 71% of world exports), Malaysia ($427M) and Thailand ($206M). World exports came to about $4.5B, 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 microwave (HS 851650)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 851650 (the code used for microwave) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($1.4B, 29% of world imports), Japan ($424M) and the United Kingdom ($212M). World imports came to about $4.8B, 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 Microwave the same in all countries?
The base HS code 851650 for Microwave 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 microwave in Brazil?
In Brazil, microwave (HS 851650) is classified under NCM 8516.50.00.