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HSChapter 96
U.S. imports of ballpoint pen refills (HS 960860) totaled $541K in April 2026, traded with 11 countries.
Last updated: April 2026 dataBallpoint pen refills — defined as the complete ink reservoir and ball-point tip assembly — are traded as a distinct component category under a single tariff line (9608600000), separate from finished pens or loose parts. Japan is the leading US supplier of these refills, reflecting the precision manufacturing standards required for consistent ink flow and tip tolerances. Importers sourcing from India or Germany should confirm that the refill constitutes the complete ball-point-and-reservoir unit, as incomplete assemblies may be reclassified under the parts subheading 9608.99.
AI-written summary of the official U.S. Census Bureau trade figures on this page — verify before relying on it.
A refill under 9608.60 must comprise both the ball point tip and the ink reservoir as an integrated unit ready for insertion into a pen body. A cartridge that contains only ink without the ball-point mechanism, or a reservoir sold separately, is more likely to fall under the parts provisions of 9608.99 (specifically 9608992000 for refill cartridges).
Classification is based on the physical characteristics of the article — the complete ball-point-and-reservoir assembly — not on the origin of the ink. However, country of origin does affect duty liability, including any applicable Section 301 tariffs for Chinese-origin goods, so origin documentation must accurately reflect where the refill was manufactured or substantially transformed.
Monthly import values over time
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