HS Code:
The FM only or AM/FM only category refers to radio receivers capable of receiving broadcasts in Frequency Modulation (FM) or both Amplitude Modulation (AM) and FM bands, without additional functionalities like digital audio or internet streaming. These products fall under HS Code 8527.19, which covers radio-broadcast receivers not combined with sound recording or reproducing apparatus. This category includes portable radios, car radios, and other standalone radio devices primarily used for personal or household purposes. The global trade for these products has seen a decline in recent years due to the rise of digital and internet-based audio streaming alternatives.
Total Trade Volume
USD 1.2 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
Average Rate
5.2%
Highest Rate
12% (India)
Lowest Rate
0% (European Union for certain trade agreements)
Decline in demand for standalone AM/FM radios
Significant reduction in trade volume as consumers shift to smartphones and streaming services for audio content
2020-2022
Rise in niche markets for emergency radios
Increased demand in regions prone to natural disasters for AM/FM radios with hand-crank or solar power features
2021-2022
Shift in production to low-cost countries
Countries like Vietnam and Bangladesh are becoming key exporters due to lower labor costs, reducing China's dominance slightly
2019-2022
The European Union introduced stricter compliance requirements under the Radio Equipment Directive (RED) for AM/FM radios, mandating energy efficiency and safety standards.
June 2022
Increased production costs for exporters to the EU market, potentially reducing trade volume from non-compliant manufacturers.
Ongoing trade disputes have led to additional tariffs on Chinese-made AM/FM radios entering the US market, prompting manufacturers to explore alternative production hubs.
March 2022
Diversification of supply chains, with Vietnam and Mexico gaining as alternative manufacturing bases.
Following major hurricanes and earthquakes in 2022, demand for AM/FM emergency radios spiked in North America and parts of Asia.
September 2022
Temporary boost in trade volume, particularly for specialized radio models with additional power features.