HS Code:
The category of percussion hammers, stethoscopes, and parts of stethoscopes falls under HS Code 9018, which covers medical, surgical, dental, or veterinary instruments and appliances. This specific subcategory includes diagnostic tools widely used by healthcare professionals for physical examinations. Percussion hammers are used to test reflexes and diagnose neurological conditions, while stethoscopes are essential for auscultation, allowing doctors to listen to internal body sounds such as heartbeats and lung activity. Parts of stethoscopes include components like chest pieces, tubing, and ear tips. These products are critical in healthcare settings globally, with demand driven by medical infrastructure development, population growth, and advancements in diagnostic technology.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $1.2 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and World Trade Organization (WTO) Statistics
$350 million USD
29.2% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$200 million USD
16.7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$180 million USD
15.0% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$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
4.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries to protect domestic industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements or for WTO members with preferential access)
Rising demand for digital stethoscopes
Increased trade in high-tech stethoscopes with features like Bluetooth connectivity and noise cancellation, driving market growth in developed economies.
2021-2023
Growth in emerging markets
Higher imports in countries like India and Brazil due to expanding healthcare infrastructure and government initiatives for universal healthcare.
2020-2022
Supply chain diversification
Manufacturers are shifting production bases to multiple regions to mitigate risks from geopolitical tensions and pandemics, affecting trade patterns.
2021-2023
A new phase of the US-China trade agreement has reduced tariffs on medical instruments, including stethoscopes, from 7.5% to 2.5%, boosting Chinese exports to the US.
January 2023
Expected to increase China's market share in the US by 5% over the next two years.
The EU has fully implemented stricter MDR requirements for medical devices, including stethoscopes, requiring manufacturers to comply with enhanced safety and performance standards.
May 2021 (full enforcement by 2023)
Increased compliance costs for exporters to the EU, potentially reducing trade volume from non-compliant manufacturers.
Major manufacturers like Littmann (3M) have launched telemedicine-compatible digital stethoscopes, aligning with the global shift toward remote healthcare.
October 2022
Likely to drive demand in markets with strong telemedicine adoption, such as the US and Europe.