WCO Harmonised System Codes
2022 Update

With a total of 351 amendments covering a wide range of goods, we’ve summed up the key updates
from the World Customs Organisation’s Harmonised System (HS) Codes 2022 Update to help you
navigate the intricate world of HS codes.

What are HS Codes?
The Harmonised System is a standardised numerical method of classifying tradedproducts. HS codes are commonly used throughout the export process by customs
authorities worldwide to identify products when assessing duties and taxes, and forgathering statistics.

Why is the update important?
Exporters and Importers are legally responsible for establishing the correct HS codeson their shipments and/or declarations. Incorrect or invalid HS codes used for customs
declarations may result in penalties or clearance delays.

Why is it necessary to revise the HS Codes?
As new products or technologies emerge or change, classifications and definitions
need to be developed accordingly. Evolving trading patterns also means there is aneed for classification segmentation or consolidation. HS Codes are also reviewed
regularly to help identify, monitor and track goods which require higher scrutiny or
priority clearance, such as strategic and controlled goods.

Adjustments for new product streams

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HS codes are now available for high-profile new product streams, such as
electrical or electronic waste, novel tobacco and nicotine-based products(e.g. e-cigarettes/ vapes), unmanned aerial vehicles (e.g. drones), andsmartphones.

Export-controlled & dual-use goods
New subheadings were added for chemicals and organic pollutants, fentanyl
opioids, certain controlled gases, radioactive materials and biological safetycabinets.

Advances in materials technology

3The subheadings were revised to address the lack of trade statistics thatcurrently do not adequately reflect the advances made in the glass fibres andmetal forming machinery industry over the past few years.

Simplified classification for multi-purpose
intermediate assemblies

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Multi-purpose intermediate assemblies, such as flat panel display modules(e.g. LCD, OLED and MicroLED) are now classified in their own productcategory. This provides a simplified classification structure by removing theneed to identify final use of such products (e.g. final use of LCDs in desktopmonitors), leading to a more eﬃcient customs clearance process.

Eﬃcient customs clearance for health andsafety-related goods
Provisions will be made for critical deployment tools (e.g. diagnostic kits,
placebos and clinical trial kits for medical research, toxins and lab equipment)
to facilitate eﬃcient customs clearance in the event of a global outbreak ofinfectious diseases, such as the current COVID-19 pandemic.

How can UPS Trade AssistTM help?

With more than 80 years of customs brokerage and global
trade experience, customers can leverage UPS Trade Assist
to navigate customs complexities and mitigate risks.

Contact us at tradeassist@ups.com or simply reach out to your UPS account executive today.
This document is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
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