HS Code:
Cathode-ray tubes (CRTs) under HS Code 8540.11 (for color) and 8540.12 (for monochrome) refer to vacuum tubes used primarily in older television sets, computer monitors, and oscilloscopes. These tubes function by directing electron beams to create images on a phosphorescent screen. While the demand for CRTs has significantly declined due to the advent of flat-panel technologies like LCD and LED, they still hold niche applications in certain industries such as vintage electronics, medical equipment, and specific military or industrial uses.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $50 million USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and World Trade Organization (WTO) Statistics
$15 million USD
30% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
$10 million USD
20% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$8 million USD
16% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
$5 million USD
10% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$3 million USD
6% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (imposed by certain developing countries to protect domestic industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as USMCA and EU-Japan EPA)
Declining demand due to technological obsolescence
Significant reduction in production and trade volume as manufacturers shift to modern display technologies like OLED and QLED
2015-2022
Niche market growth in retro gaming and vintage electronics
Sustained small-scale demand for CRTs in specific consumer segments and repair markets
2020-2022
Increased focus on recycling and e-waste management
Stricter regulations on disposal and trade of CRTs due to environmental concerns, leading to higher compliance costs
2018-2022
The European Union introduced stricter guidelines on the disposal and recycling of CRTs as part of its Circular Economy Action Plan, requiring exporters to provide detailed documentation on end-of-life management.
March 2022
Increased compliance costs for exporters to the EU, potentially reducing trade volumes to the region.
A small number of manufacturers in Asia have restarted limited production of CRTs to cater to the retro gaming community and vintage equipment restoration markets.
October 2021
Slight uptick in trade volume in specific markets, though overall decline continues.
The United States introduced new import restrictions on CRTs under environmental protection laws to curb the inflow of hazardous waste disguised as functional units.
July 2022
Reduction in imports to the US, redirection of trade to other markets with less stringent regulations.