Product classification
HS code for Mobile phone: 8517.13
Telephone sets, smartphones for cellular or other wireless networks.
Classification of mobile phone under HS 8517.13
Mobile phones, specifically smartphones, are classified under HS code 8517.13. This classification was introduced in the 2022 version of the Harmonized System to differentiate smartphones from simpler cellular devices. Heading 8517 covers telephone sets and other apparatus for the transmission of voice or data. According to the Chapter 85 notes, a smartphone is defined as a mobile phone with an operating system capable of running third-party applications and performing functions beyond simple telephony, such as internet browsing and multimedia playback. For devices that do not meet the technical definition of a smartphone (such as basic "feature phones"), the classification shifts to 8517.14. The classification process follows GRI 1 and GRI 6, ensuring that the most specific description is applied. As technology evolves, the distinction between a phone and a handheld computer becomes narrower, but the primary function of connecting to a cellular network keeps these devices within heading 8517.
- Covers
- Smartphones (Android, iOS, etc.)
- IPhones and similar high-end mobile devices
- Cellular phones with integrated touchscreens and advanced OS
- Foldable smartphones
- Ruggedized smartphones for industrial use
- Also under 8517.13
- Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max
- Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
- Google Pixel 8 Pro
- Xiaomi 14 Ultra
- OnePlus 12
Codes often confused with 8517.13
Common mistake. Prior to 2022, most mobile phones were classified under 8517.12. This code has been deleted in the current HS nomenclature, and using it will result in customs rejection. Another common error is 8517.14, which is for "other" telephones for cellular networks; this should only be used for non-smartphones. Occasionally, tablets with cellular capabilities are confused with phones, but if the device is primarily a computer, it may fall under 8471.
Top exporters and importers of HS 851713 (the code used for mobile phone), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 851713 (the code used for mobile phone) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 42% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 17% 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 851713, not only mobile phone.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $120.6B 42% of world exports
- 2 Vietnam* ~$31.8B 11% of world exports · partner records ↗
- 3 India $30.1B 10% of world exports
World total: $288.0B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $52.4B 17% of world imports
- 2 United Arab Emirates* ~$34.3B 11% of world imports · partner records ↗
- 3 Hong Kong $32.2B 10% of world imports
World total: $317.3B 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 mobile phone
Brazil classifies mobile phone under NCM 8517.13.00: HS 8517.13 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about mobile phone
What is the HS code for Mobile phone?
The HS code for Mobile phone is 851713 (Telephone sets; smartphones for cellular or other wireless networks). The HS code for a smartphone is 8517.13. For a basic mobile phone without a complex operating system, the code is 8517.14.
How do I classify Mobile phone for customs?
Mobile phone is classified under HS code 851713 — Telephone sets; smartphones for cellular or other wireless networks. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Is a tablet with a SIM card a mobile phone?
Generally, no. If the device is primarily designed for data processing rather than telephony, it is classified under 8471.30, even if it has cellular connectivity.
Which countries are the top exporters of mobile phone (HS 851713)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 851713 (the code used for mobile phone) in UN Comtrade data were China ($120.6B, 42% of world exports), Vietnam (about $31.8B) and India ($30.1B). World exports came to about $288.0B, 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.
Which countries are the top importers of mobile phone (HS 851713)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 851713 (the code used for mobile phone) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($52.4B, 17% of world imports), the United Arab Emirates (about $34.3B) and Hong Kong ($32.2B). World imports came to about $317.3B, 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 Mobile phone the same in all countries?
The base HS code 851713 for Mobile phone 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 mobile phone in Brazil?
In Brazil, mobile phone (HS 851713) is classified under NCM 8517.13.00.