HS Code:
The category of metronomes, tuning forks, and pitch pipes (HS Code: 92099920) includes musical accessories used for maintaining rhythm, tuning instruments, and ensuring accurate pitch. Metronomes are devices that produce regular ticks to help musicians keep tempo, tuning forks are metal instruments that produce a specific pitch when struck, and pitch pipes are small devices used to provide a reference pitch, often for vocal or instrumental tuning. These products are niche but essential in music education, performance, and instrument manufacturing. Global trade in this category is relatively small compared to other musical instruments, but it serves a specialized market of musicians, educators, and manufacturers.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $50 million USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database & International Trade Centre (ITC)
$20 million USD
40% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$10 million USD
20% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$8 million USD
16% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$5 million USD
10% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$3 million USD
6% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
5.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-Japan EPA or USMCA)
Rise of Digital Metronomes and Apps
Traditional mechanical metronomes face declining demand as digital alternatives and mobile apps gain popularity, though premium analog products retain a niche market among classical musicians.
2020-2022
Growth in Music Education
Increased investment in music education programs in emerging economies has boosted demand for affordable tuning tools and metronomes, particularly from China and Taiwan.
2019-2022
Sustainability Concerns
Manufacturers are shifting toward eco-friendly materials for metronomes and tuning forks, responding to consumer demand for sustainable products, impacting production costs and trade patterns.
2021-2023
The European Union reduced tariffs on musical accessories, including metronomes and tuning forks, under updated trade agreements with Asian exporters, aiming to support music education initiatives.
January 2023
Expected to increase imports from China and Taiwan by 10-15% in the EU market over the next two years.
Ongoing trade tensions have led to additional tariffs on Chinese-made metronomes and tuning forks entering the US, prompting some importers to source from alternative markets like Taiwan.
Mid-2022
Shift in supply chains, with a 5% increase in imports from Taiwan to the US.
Major manufacturers in Japan and Germany introduced hybrid metronomes combining analog and digital features, targeting professional musicians and increasing export value.
October 2022
Strengthened market position of high-value exporters like Japan and Germany, with a projected 8% growth in their trade volume for 2023.