HS Code:
Electro-medical instruments and appliances, classified under HS Code 9018, encompass a wide range of medical devices used for diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment. This category includes items such as electrocardiographs, ultrasound machines, MRI scanners, and parts and accessories thereof. These products are critical in healthcare systems worldwide, driven by advancements in medical technology and the increasing demand for diagnostic and therapeutic equipment. Global trade in this category is influenced by factors such as technological innovation, regulatory standards, and healthcare expenditure.
Total Trade Volume
USD 60.2 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
USD 14.5 billion
24.1% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 9.8 billion
16.3% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 7.2 billion
12.0% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 5.1 billion
8.5% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 3.9 billion
6.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
4.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
15% (applied by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements and WTO bindings for medical equipment)
Rising demand for portable and wearable medical devices
Increased trade in compact diagnostic tools and remote monitoring equipment, especially in aging populations and telehealth sectors.
2021-2023
Technological advancements in imaging and diagnostic equipment
Boosted exports of high-value MRI and CT scanners, with major manufacturers in the US and Germany benefiting from innovation-driven demand.
2020-2022
Growth in emerging markets' healthcare infrastructure
Higher imports of electro-medical equipment by countries in Asia and Africa to support expanding hospital networks and public health initiatives.
2019-2023
A phase one trade deal between the US and China included provisions to reduce tariffs on certain electro-medical instruments, facilitating smoother trade flows.
January 2020
Increased exports of US-made medical devices to China, contributing to a 5% rise in trade volume for this category.
The EU implemented stricter regulations under the MDR framework, requiring enhanced compliance for electro-medical equipment entering the market.
May 2021
Temporary delays in trade due to certification bottlenecks, but long-term improvement in product safety and market trust.
The pandemic caused significant disruptions in the supply chain for electro-medical instruments, with increased demand for ventilators and diagnostic tools straining production capacities.
March 2020 - December 2021
Led to temporary export restrictions in some countries and a surge in prices, though trade volumes have since stabilized with recovery efforts.