Harmonized System
U.S. exports of Microscopes for Photomicrography, Cinephotomicrography & Microprojection (HS 901120) totaled $1.6M in August 2026.
Importers of Microscopes for Photomicrography, Cinephotomicrography & Microprojection paid $94K in duties in August 2026, an average duty rate of 19.17% — duty actually collected as a share of the imports that cleared customs, not the published tariff schedule.
Last updated: August 2026 dataOptical microscopes engineered specifically for photomicrography, cinephotomicrography, or microprojection — where capturing or projecting the magnified image is the primary function — 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 — verify before relying on it.
20 import shipments a month
The classification turns on whether the microscope is specifically designed and configured for image capture or projection as a primary function — 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.
Subheading 4 of 4 in heading 9011
Subheading 901120 · $1.6M of $22.4M
HS10 import codes under this HS6 parent, each with its own page. Source: U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule.
| Code | Description | Imports for consumption | Average duty rate | Dutiable Share | Duty Collected |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9011204000 | Microscopes, With Means to Photograph the Image | $466K | 19.19% | 86.05% | $89K |
| 9011208000 | Microscopes, Exc With Means to Photograph Image | $22K | 18.79% | 100.00% | $4K |
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 | $1.6M |
Import lines come from the U.S. Harmonized Tariff Schedule and export lines from Schedule B. The two are numbered by different agencies, so the same 10-digit code can appear in both tables describing a different product.
ImportsExports
Imports
$488KYoY · free account
Exports
$1.6MYoY · free account
12-mo low · imports
Low · free accountOver the twelve months to August 2026, the U.S. imported $6.0M of Microscopes for Photomicrography, Cinephotomicrography & Microprojection and exported $13.3M.
Through August 2026. Source: U.S. Census Bureau.
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Exports · August 2026
destination
customs district
origin
entry
rate provision · imports
13.3% enters free of duty; duty collected equals 19.17% of imports for consumption.