Product classification
HS code for Solar panel: 8501.72
Electric generators, photovoltaic DC generators, of an output exceeding 50W.
Classification of solar panel under HS 8501.72
Solar panels with an output exceeding 50W are classified under HS code 8501.72. This code falls under the category of electric generators, specifically photovoltaic DC generators. The classification is based on the panel's function as a device that converts light energy directly into electrical energy in the form of direct current. Unlike individual solar cells, these are modules or panels consisting of multiple cells connected together and mounted in a frame. The power output threshold of 50W is the defining characteristic that separates this code from 8501.71, which covers panels of 50W or less. This classification ensures that large-scale energy production equipment is distinguished from small-scale consumer electronics components. It is important to note that for the panel to be classified here, it must be a complete DC generator module ready to produce power, rather than just a collection of loose cells.
- Covers
- Monocrystalline solar panels (>50W)
- Polycrystalline solar modules (>50W)
- Thin-film solar panels for industrial use
- Bifacial solar modules
- Rigid solar panels for rooftop installation
- Also under 8501.72
- LG NeON R Solar Panel
- JinkoSolar Tiger Pro
- Canadian Solar HiKu
- Trina Solar Vertex
- SunPower Maxeon 3
Codes often confused with 8501.72
Common mistake. A common error is classifying these panels under HS code 8541.42 or 8541.43. Heading 8541 is reserved for individual photovoltaic cells that are not yet assembled into modules or panels. Once cells are assembled into a frame with electrical connectors and exceed 50W, they must be moved to 8501.72. Misclassification here can affect eligibility for solar-specific trade programs.
Top exporters and importers of HS 850172 (the code used for solar panel), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 850172 (the code used for solar panel) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 74% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was Chile, with 62% 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 850172, not only solar panel.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $157M 74% of world exports
- 2 Germany $13M 6.4% of world exports
- 3 United States $11M 5.4% of world exports
World total: $211M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 Chile $772M 62% of world imports
- 2 Sri Lanka $89M 7.2% of world imports
- 3 Mexico $77M 6.2% of world imports
World total: $1.2B 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 codes for solar panel
Brazil splits HS 8501.72 into 2 NCM codes. Pick the one that matches your product:
- 8501.72.10Photovoltaic DC generators over 50 W to 75 kW
- 8501.72.90Photovoltaic DC generators over 75 kW
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about solar panel
What is the HS code for Solar panel?
The HS code for Solar panel is 850172 (Electric generators; photovoltaic DC generators, of an output exceeding 50W). For solar panels exceeding 50W, the HS code is 8501.72. For those 50W or less, use 8501.71.
How do I classify Solar panel for customs?
Solar panel is classified under HS code 850172 — Electric generators; photovoltaic DC generators, of an output exceeding 50W. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Does this HS code include the aluminum frame?
Yes, HS code 8501.72 covers the entire assembled module, including the cells, glass, backing, and the protective frame.
Which countries are the top exporters of solar panel (HS 850172)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 850172 (the code used for solar panel) in UN Comtrade data were China ($157M, 74% of world exports), Germany ($13M) and the United States ($11M). World exports came to about $211M, 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 solar panel (HS 850172)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 850172 (the code used for solar panel) in UN Comtrade data were Chile ($772M, 62% of world imports), Sri Lanka ($89M) and Mexico ($77M). World imports came to about $1.2B, 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 Solar panel the same in all countries?
The base HS code 850172 for Solar panel 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 solar panel in Brazil?
Brazil splits HS 850172 into 2 NCM codes, so the right one for solar panel depends on the product's details: 8501.72.10 (Photovoltaic DC generators over 50 W to 75 kW), 8501.72.90 (Photovoltaic DC generators over 75 kW).