Product classification
HS code for Pen nibs: 9608.91
Pens, nibs and nib points.
Classification of pen nibs under HS 9608.91
The classification of pen nibs under HS code 9608.91 is a specific designation within the broader category of writing instruments found in Chapter 96 of the Harmonized System. This code is dedicated to the nibs and nib points themselves, which are the essential components of fountain pens, stylograph pens, and dip pens. According to the General Rules of Interpretation (GRI), specifically GRI 1, classification is determined by the literal terms of the headings. Heading 96.08 covers a variety of pens, but subheading 9608.91 isolates the nib as a distinct part. These nibs are often precision-engineered from various metals, including stainless steel, brass, or even gold. A common point of technicality involves nibs made of precious metals; however, Note 1 to Chapter 96 and Note 2 to Section XX clarify that parts of general use or specific components like nibs remain classified here even if they consist of precious metal, provided they are not mere ornaments. The manufacturing of these nibs involves complex stamping, slit-cutting, and the tipping of the point with hard-wearing alloys like osmium or iridium to ensure longevity. This level of specific manufacturing distinguishes the nib from a simple piece of shaped metal. Furthermore, the HS code applies whether the nib is imported as a replacement part or as a component for the assembly of new pens. Understanding this classification is vital for manufacturers who source components globally, as it ensures that the parts are not misclassified as the finished instrument or as raw metal. The precision required in the slit of the nib, which facilitates capillary action for ink flow, is a defining characteristic of the products falling under this specific subheading.
- Covers
- Fountain pen nibs
- Calligraphy nibs
- Replacement nib points
- Gold-plated nibs
- Steel nibs for drawing pens
- Iridium-tipped nibs
- Also under 9608.91
- Lamy Z50 nib
- Pilot Custom 74 nib
- Jowo #6 nib
- Bock 250 nib
- Zebra G-nib
Codes often confused with 9608.91
Common mistake. Pen nibs are frequently confused with complete writing instruments. For example, ballpoint pens are classified under 9608.10 and fountain pens under 9608.30. Additionally, if a nib is made of solid gold, some importers mistakenly look toward Chapter 71 (7115) for articles of precious metal, but Chapter 96 notes explicitly keep nibs within 9608.91 regardless of the metal composition.
Top exporters and importers of HS 960891 (the code used for pen nibs), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 960891 (the code used for pen nibs) in UN Comtrade data was Japan, with 55% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was India, with 16% 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 960891, not only pen nibs.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 Japan $61M 55% of world exports
- 2 India $18M 17% of world exports
- 3 Thailand $12M 11% of world exports
World total: $110M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 India $16M 16% of world imports
- 2 United States $14M 14% of world imports
- 3 Vietnam* ~$9.6M 9.3% of world imports · partner records ↗
World total: $103M 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 pen nibs
Brazil classifies pen nibs under NCM 9608.91.00: HS 9608.91 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about pen nibs
What is the HS code for Pen nibs?
The HS code for Pen nibs is 960891 (Pens; nibs and nib points). The HS code for pen nibs and nib points is 9608.91.
How do I classify Pen nibs for customs?
Pen nibs is classified under HS code 960891 — Pens; nibs and nib points. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Does the material of the nib affect the HS code?
No, whether the nib is made of stainless steel, gold, or other alloys, it remains classified under 9608.91 as a part of a writing instrument.
Which countries are the top exporters of pen nibs (HS 960891)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 960891 (the code used for pen nibs) in UN Comtrade data were Japan ($61M, 55% of world exports), India ($18M) and Thailand ($12M). World exports came to about $110M, 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 pen nibs (HS 960891)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 960891 (the code used for pen nibs) in UN Comtrade data were India ($16M, 16% of world imports), the United States ($14M) and Vietnam (about $9.6M). World imports came to about $103M, 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 Pen nibs the same in all countries?
The base HS code 960891 for Pen nibs 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 pen nibs in Brazil?
In Brazil, pen nibs (HS 960891) is classified under NCM 9608.91.00.