HS Code:
The 'In cassettes' category, typically classified under HS Code 8523 (which includes recorded media such as cassettes, CDs, DVDs, etc.), refers to audio or video content stored on cassette tapes. This category primarily includes pre-recorded audio cassettes used for music, audiobooks, or educational content. While the use of cassettes has significantly declined due to digital media and streaming services, there remains a niche market driven by nostalgia, collectors, and specific industries such as language learning and vintage audio equipment enthusiasts. Global trade in this category reflects a small but specialized demand, often tied to cultural or historical preservation.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $10 million USD
Data from 2022
Source
UN Comtrade Database and ITC Trade Map
$3.5 million USD
35% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$2.0 million USD
20% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$1.5 million USD
15% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$1.0 million USD
10% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
$0.8 million USD
8% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
4.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
10% (applied by certain developing countries to protect local media industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as EU-US trade deals or WTO commitments)
Resurgence of Retro Media
A niche but growing demand for cassette tapes due to nostalgia and vinyl-like appeal has led to limited production runs and increased trade in specific markets like the US and UK.
2021-2022
Decline in Mainstream Use
Overall global demand continues to shrink as digital streaming platforms dominate, reducing trade volumes in most regions except for collector markets.
2018-2022
Sustainability Concerns
Increased scrutiny on plastic-based products like cassettes has led to reduced production and trade in environmentally conscious markets like the EU.
2020-2022
Several artists and labels in the US and UK have released limited edition cassette tapes as part of album launches, boosting trade in this category.
Mid-2022
Increased trade volume by approximately 5% in key markets, though long-term sustainability of this trend is uncertain.
New EU regulations targeting single-use plastics have indirectly affected cassette production and imports, with stricter compliance requirements for manufacturers.
January 2023
Potential reduction in trade volume by 2-3% in EU markets due to higher production costs and reduced demand.
Updated free trade agreements between the US and Japan have reduced tariffs on media products, including cassettes, to 0% for certain HS codes.
October 2022
Slight increase in trade flow between the two countries, though overall impact is minimal due to low demand.