Product classification
HS code for Sound amplifier: 8518.40
Amplifiers, audio-frequency electric.
Classification of sound amplifier under HS 8518.40
Audio-frequency electric amplifiers are classified under HS code 8518.40. This classification is part of Chapter 85, which encompasses electrical machinery and equipment. The specific heading 8518 covers microphones, loudspeakers, and various types of audio amplifiers. An amplifier is classified here when its primary function is to increase the power of an electrical signal within the audible frequency range (typically 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz). These devices are essential components in sound reproduction systems, but they are classified under 8518.40 when they are presented as individual units rather than as part of a combined set or integrated into a loudspeaker enclosure. The technical distinction relies on the device being a standalone electronic component designed to drive speakers or other output devices. This code applies to both consumer-grade high-fidelity amplifiers and professional-grade power amplifiers used in concert venues or recording studios. It does not include radio-frequency amplifiers used in broadcasting, which are classified elsewhere.
- Covers
- Hi-fi stereo amplifiers
- Professional power amplifiers
- Audio pre-amplifiers
- Guitar amplifier heads (without speakers)
- Public address (PA) amplifiers
- Home theater receivers (primarily for amplification)
- Multi-channel audio amplifiers
- Also under 8518.40
- Marantz PM8006
- Yamaha A-S801
- Fender '65 Twin Reverb
- Sonos Amp
- JL Audio XD600/6v2
Codes often confused with 8518.40
Common mistake. A frequent misclassification occurs with HS code 8518.50, which is reserved for electric sound amplifier sets. A set typically includes a microphone, an amplifier, and a loudspeaker. If the amplifier is imported alone, it must stay in 8518.40. Another common confusion involves HS code 8518.21 or 8518.22, which are for loudspeakers. If an amplifier is built into a speaker cabinet (active speakers), the entire unit is usually classified as a loudspeaker rather than an amplifier. Furthermore, instrument amplifiers that include a speaker are often misclassified; if the speaker and amplifier are in one box, they are loudspeakers (8518.2x).
Top exporters and importers of HS 851840 (the code used for sound amplifier), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 851840 (the code used for sound amplifier) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 28% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 25% 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 851840, not only sound amplifier.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $1.3B 28% of world exports
- 2 Mexico $658M 14% of world exports
- 3 United States $572M 13% of world exports
World total: $4.5B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $1.1B 25% of world imports
- 2 Germany $479M 11% of world imports
- 3 Japan $372M 8.4% of world imports
World total: $4.5B 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 sound amplifier
Brazil classifies sound amplifier under NCM 8518.40.00: HS 8518.40 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about sound amplifier
What is the HS code for Sound amplifier?
The HS code for Sound amplifier is 851840 (Amplifiers; audio-frequency electric). The HS code for audio-frequency electric amplifiers is 8518.40.
How do I classify Sound amplifier for customs?
Sound amplifier is classified under HS code 851840 — Amplifiers; audio-frequency electric. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Does this code include amplifiers with built-in speakers?
No, amplifiers integrated into a speaker enclosure are generally classified as loudspeakers under HS code 8518.21 or 8518.22.
Which countries are the top exporters of sound amplifier (HS 851840)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 851840 (the code used for sound amplifier) in UN Comtrade data were China ($1.3B, 28% of world exports), Mexico ($658M) and the United States ($572M). 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 sound amplifier (HS 851840)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 851840 (the code used for sound amplifier) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($1.1B, 25% of world imports), Germany ($479M) and Japan ($372M). World imports 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.
Is the HS code for Sound amplifier the same in all countries?
The base HS code 851840 for Sound amplifier 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 sound amplifier in Brazil?
In Brazil, sound amplifier (HS 851840) is classified under NCM 8518.40.00.