HS Code:
The category under HS Code 8518.30.10 pertains to line telephone handsets, which are essential components of traditional wired telephone systems used for voice communication. Subheading 8518.40.10 includes repeaters, which are devices used to amplify and retransmit telecommunication signals to extend the range of communication networks. These products are critical in both residential and commercial communication infrastructure, though their demand has seen fluctuations with the rise of mobile and VoIP technologies. Global trade in these products reflects the ongoing need for maintenance of legacy systems and specific industrial applications.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $1.2 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and International Trade Centre (ITC)
$450 million USD
37.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$200 million USD
16.7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$150 million USD
12.5% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
$100 million USD
8.3% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$80 million USD
6.7% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like USMCA and EU-Japan EPA)
Decline in demand for traditional handsets
Shift towards mobile and internet-based communication systems has reduced the market size for line telephone handsets, particularly in developed economies.
2020-2022
Increased demand for repeaters in rural connectivity
Growing initiatives to improve telecommunication infrastructure in remote areas have boosted the demand for repeaters, especially in developing regions.
2021-2023
Technological integration with VoIP systems
Some manufacturers are adapting handsets to be compatible with VoIP systems, creating a niche market for hybrid communication devices.
2022
Tariff reductions on telecommunication equipment under the US-China Phase 1 trade deal have facilitated increased exports of Chinese handsets and repeaters to the US market.
January 2020
Boosted trade volume by approximately 10% between the two countries for this category.
New EU regulations under the Green Deal mandate stricter energy efficiency standards for telecommunication devices, including repeaters, affecting production costs.
March 2022
Increased compliance costs for manufacturers exporting to the EU, potentially raising prices by 5-7%.
India’s push for rural connectivity under the Digital India program has led to a surge in demand for repeaters to support telecommunication infrastructure.
July 2021
Created a 15% increase in imports of repeaters, benefiting exporters from China and South Korea.