HS Code:
The category of High Definition, non-projection type, with a cathode-ray tube (CRT) falls under HS Code 8528.72. This category includes HD television receivers that utilize cathode-ray tube technology, a once-dominant display technology now largely replaced by LCD, LED, and OLED in modern markets. These products are characterized by their bulky design and lower energy efficiency compared to newer technologies. Trade in this category has significantly declined over the years due to technological obsolescence, with demand mostly limited to niche markets, vintage collectors, or specific industrial applications.
Total Trade Volume
USD 15 million
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
Average Rate
5.2%
Highest Rate
15% (applied by certain developing countries to protect domestic industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU Single Market or USMCA)
Decline in demand due to technological obsolescence
Significant reduction in production and trade volume as manufacturers shift to modern display technologies like OLED and QLED.
2018-2022
Niche market growth for vintage and retro gaming
Small but steady demand from collectors and gaming enthusiasts for CRT displays due to their unique visual output for retro gaming consoles.
2020-2022
Increased environmental regulations
Stricter rules on disposal and recycling of CRTs due to hazardous materials, increasing costs for manufacturers and importers.
2019-2022
The European Union has introduced stricter guidelines on the disposal of CRT-based devices, mandating certified recycling processes to handle hazardous materials like lead.
March 2022
Increased compliance costs for exporters to the EU, further discouraging trade in CRT products.
Online gaming forums and communities have reported a small resurgence in demand for CRT TVs for retro gaming setups, driving limited imports in key markets.
July 2021
Temporary stabilization of trade volumes in niche markets, though overall decline continues.
Major Chinese manufacturers have announced plans to phase out remaining CRT production lines due to low demand and high production costs.
October 2022
Expected further decline in global trade volume as the largest supplier scales back operations.