HS Code:
The 'Fitted with modular telephone connectors' category, often classified under HS Code 8536.69 (electrical apparatus for switching or protecting electrical circuits, or for making connections to or in electrical circuits), includes products such as modular telephone jacks and plugs used primarily in telecommunications for connecting devices to networks. These connectors are essential components in telephony and data communication equipment, facilitating reliable and standardized connections.
Total Trade Volume
USD 1.2 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
Average Rate
5.2%
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as USMCA and EU-Japan EPA)
Shift to wireless communication technologies
Decreasing demand for traditional telephone connectors as wireless and VoIP solutions gain traction, though demand persists in legacy systems and developing regions.
2021-2022
Rise in smart home and IoT devices
Increased demand for modular connectors in smart home systems requiring wired network connections for stability and security.
2022
Supply chain diversification
Manufacturers are moving production away from single-country dependency (e.g., China) to mitigate risks from geopolitical tensions and tariffs.
2020-2022
Phase One trade agreement between the US and China includes provisions to reduce tariffs on certain electrical components, including modular connectors.
January 2020 (updated 2022)
Potentially lowers costs for US importers, increasing trade volume from China.
New EU regulations under the Green Deal mandate eco-friendly materials and recycling standards for electronic components, including telephone connectors.
March 2022
Increases production costs for manufacturers but may open opportunities for sustainable product lines.
The ongoing semiconductor shortage has indirectly affected the production of devices requiring modular connectors, slowing down related trade.
2021-2023
Temporary reduction in demand for connectors as production of end-use devices is delayed.