HS 901890 Other medical or surgical instruments and appliances

Import duty rates for HS code 901890 can vary significantly depending on the importing country and any applicable trade agreements. For example, under the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS), the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate is often Free. However, preferential rates under trade agreements like the U.S.-Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS FTA) may also be Free. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule, for the most accurate and up-to-date rates applicable to your shipment. Always verify the specific rate for the destination country.

Import duty for HS code 901890 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis (as a percentage of the item's value) or a specific rate (per unit). For instance, if a shipment of surgical clamps classified under 901890 has a declared customs value of $10,000 USD and the applicable duty rate is 3.5% ad valorem, the duty calculation would be: $10,000 (Value) × 0.035 (Duty Rate) = $350 USD (Duty Amount). If there were a specific duty, such as $0.50 per unit, and you imported 1,000 units, the duty would be 1,000 units × $0.50/unit = $500 USD. Always confirm the basis of duty calculation (ad valorem, specific, or compound) with the official tariff schedule.

HS code 901890 covers 'Other medical or surgical instruments and appliances' not specifically listed in other headings within Chapter 90. The primary criteria for classification under this code include: 1. Medical or Surgical Use: The instrument or appliance must be designed or intended for use in medical, surgical, dental, or veterinary diagnosis, treatment, or prevention of disease. 2. Exclusion from Other Headings: It must not be classifiable under more specific headings within Chapter 90, such as those for instruments for measuring, checking, testing, or controlling fluids (9026), instruments and apparatus for physical or chemical analysis (9027), or X-ray apparatus (9022). Examples include surgical clamps, retractors, certain types of probes, and specialized surgical tools not otherwise specified. Consult the Explanatory Notes of the Harmonized System (WCO) for detailed guidance.

Importing medical or surgical instruments and appliances under HS code 901890 often requires specific documentation beyond standard customs declarations. Common requirements include: 1. Commercial Invoice: Detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods. 2. Packing List: Outlining the contents of each package. 3. Bill of Lading/Air Waybill: For transportation. 4. Import License/Permit: Many countries require specific authorization from health authorities (e.g., FDA in the U.S., EMA in the EU) for medical devices, even if they are classified under 901890. 5. Certificate of Origin: To claim preferential duty rates under trade agreements. 6. Product Specifications/Technical Data Sheets: To substantiate the classification and intended use. Always verify the precise documentation requirements with the customs authority and relevant health regulatory bodies of the importing country.

Trade agreements significantly impact duty rates for HS code 901890. For instance, the EU's TARIC (Integrated Tariff of the European Union) database and the UK Trade Tariff incorporate preferential duty rates for goods originating from countries with which the EU or UK have trade agreements. If a medical instrument classified under 901890 originates from a country that has a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the importing bloc (EU or UK), it may be eligible for a reduced or duty-free entry, provided all rules of origin are met. Importers and customs brokers must consult the specific tariff database (TARIC for the EU, UK Trade Tariff for the UK) and present a valid proof of origin to benefit from these preferential rates. For example, a specific instrument might have a standard MFN duty of 4.7% but be duty-free under an FTA.