HS Code:
The 'Other, monochrome' category under the Harmonized System (HS) Code generally pertains to monochrome products or components not classified under specific subcategories. This can include monochrome displays, printers, or other imaging equipment that are not color-capable. These products are primarily used in specialized industrial, commercial, or legacy systems where color output is not required. The category is niche but significant in specific sectors like medical imaging, industrial printing, and archival documentation due to the precision and cost-effectiveness of monochrome technology.
Total Trade Volume
USD 1.2 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
Average Rate
5.2%
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries to protect local industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as USMCA and EU-Japan EPA)
Shift towards digital monochrome solutions
Increased demand for high-resolution monochrome displays in medical and industrial applications, driving trade growth in advanced economies.
2021-2022
Decline in traditional monochrome printing
Reduced trade volume for legacy monochrome printers as businesses transition to color and multifunctional devices, particularly in developed markets.
2020-2022
Rising production in Asia-Pacific
Significant growth in exports from China and South Korea due to cost-effective manufacturing and supply chain efficiencies.
2019-2022
The European Union introduced stricter energy efficiency and recycling requirements for electronic displays, including monochrome products, to promote sustainability.
March 2023
Exporters to the EU market may face higher compliance costs, potentially reducing trade volumes from non-compliant manufacturers.
A revised trade agreement between the US and China reduced tariffs on certain electronic components, including monochrome devices, from 7.5% to 5%.
January 2023
This reduction is expected to boost Chinese exports to the US, increasing overall trade volume in this category.
South Korea announced a $200 million investment in next-generation monochrome display technology for industrial applications.
June 2022
This development is likely to strengthen South Korea's position as a leading exporter in this category over the next few years.