HSChapter 90
U.S. imports of microscopes for photomicrography, cinephotomicrography & microprojection (HS 901120) totaled $356K in June 2026, traded with 16 countries.
Importers of Microscopes for Photomicrography, Cinephotomicrography & Microprojection paid $86K in duties in June 2026 โ an effective duty rate of 24% on $356K in dutiable value, based on actual customs collections rather than the published tariff schedule. Microscopes for Photomicrography, Cinephotomicrography & Microprojection imports of $356K in June 2026 ran 34% below the year-to-date monthly average of $540K.
Optical microscopes engineered specifically for photomicrography, cinephotomicrography, or microprojection โ where capturing or projecting the magnified image is the primary function โ occupy a distinct heading from general compound microscopes. The US schedule separates units with integrated image-capture means (9011204000) from those without (9011208000). Germany is the leading supplier, with China and Japan also prominent, reflecting the global distribution of advanced research microscopy manufacturing. These instruments are heavily used in life sciences, materials science, and semiconductor research, where image documentation is integral to the workflow rather than an accessory function.
AI-written summary of the official U.S. Census Bureau trade figures on this page โ verify before relying on it.
The classification turns on whether the microscope is specifically designed and configured for image capture or projection as a primary function โ for example, having a dedicated camera port, built-in illumination optimized for photography, or a projection head. A standard compound microscope with an aftermarket camera adapter attached at import would not automatically qualify under 9011.20; the design intent and factory configuration matter.
Yes, microscopes originating in China under this heading may be subject to Section 301 tariffs. Importers should verify the current list coverage and check whether any product-specific exclusions apply, as the scope and exclusion status of Section 301 actions have evolved over time. Consulting a licensed customs broker before entry is advisable.
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Monthly import values over time
HS10 import codes under this HS6 parent, each with its own page. Source: U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule.
| Code | Description | Import Value | Effective Tariff % | Dutiable Share | Duty Collected |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9011204000 | MICROSCOPES, WITH MEANS TO PHOTOGRAPH THE IMAGE | $338K | 24.62% | 100.00% | $83K |
| 9011208000 | MICROSCOPES, EXC WITH MEANS TO PHOTOGRAPH IMAGE | $18K | 17.20% | 100.00% | $3K |
HS10 export codes under this HS6 parent, each with its own page. Source: U.S. Schedule B export classification.
| Code | Description | Export Value |
|---|---|---|
| 9011200000 | MICROSCOPES, FOR MICROPHOTOGRAPHY&CINEMA ETC,NESOI | $1.1M |
INSTR & APPL F MEDICAL SURGICAL DENTAL VET, NESOI
HS 901890
MED NEEDLES. NESOI, CATHERERS ETC AND PARTS ETC
HS 901839
ELECTRO-DIAGNOSTIC APPARATUS NESOI, AND PARTS ETC.
HS 901819
OZONE,OXYGEN,ETC THERAPY, RESPIRATION APPARATUS,PT
HS 901920
ARTIFICIAL JOINTS & PARTS & ACCESSORIES THEROF,NES
HS 902139
MEAS CHECKNG INSTRUMENT & MACH, NOT OPTICAL, NESOI
HS 903180
| State | Imports | Exports | Balance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | $135K | $303K | +$167K |
| California | $27K | $370K | +$343K |
| Texas | $119K | $39K | -$80K |
| Port | Imports | Exports | Balance |
|---|---|---|---|
| CLEVELAND, OH | $8K | $365K | +$357K |
| ANCHORAGE, AK | -- | $244K | +$244K |
| LOS ANGELES INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, CA | $138K | $83K | -$55K |