HS 8528Electronics · China

Computer Monitors & Displays - HS 8528 classification, duty and landed cost - Import into China

Duty and tax snapshot for importing electronics (HS 8528) into China. Typical MFN duty ~2%, VAT 13% on CIF + duty. Decision-support only - confirm the 10-digit line and preferential status with your broker.

Typical duty

VAT

13%

Total taxes / CIF

15.3%

Worked landed-cost example

USD 40,000 FOB parcel of electronics (HS 8528) shipped to China.

FOB valueUSD 40,000

Origin chargesUSD 600

FreightUSD 3,200

InsuranceUSD 200

CIFUSD 44,000

Import duty @ 2%USD 880

VAT @ 13%USD 5,834

Destination inlandUSD 800

Landed cost ≈ USD 51,514

Run your own numbers in the Landed Cost by HS & Country tool.

Sample HS codes

Code	Description
8528.52	Monitors, colour, capable of use with ADP
8548.00	Electrical parts of machinery, n.e.s.

China duty regime

MFN tariffs published by the Customs Tariff Commission. Preferential rates under RCEP, ASEAN-China FTA, China-Australia FTA, China-Korea FTA, China-Switzerland FTA and 17+ others. Consumption tax applies to luxury goods, autos, fuel and tobacco.

Customs notes

· China uses a 10-digit HS extension of the 6-digit WCO HS. Digits 7-8 are the CN tariff sub-heading; 9-10 are statistical/regulatory.
· CIQ (China Inspection & Quarantine, now merged into Customs) inspection is mandatory for food, cosmetics, medical devices, and many consumer goods. GACC registration is required for food exporters to China.
· Customs value = CIF. Duty is applied first, then consumption tax (if any), then 13% VAT on the combined base.
· China Compulsory Certification (CCC) applies to 100+ product categories - vehicles, electrical products, toys, medical devices. Without CCC, goods cannot clear customs.

Frequently asked questions

What is the typical import duty on electronics (HS 8528) into China?

China applies an MFN duty of about 2% on HS chapter 8528 at the 6-digit line. National tariff schedules add 2–4 further digits, so the exact rate can shift once you confirm the 8- or 10-digit code. Preferential rates under FTAs (MFN tariffs published by the Customs Tariff Commission) may reduce this to 0% for qualifying origins.

How is VAT calculated on imports of electronics in China?

China charges VAT at 13% on the CIF value plus duty. 13% VAT std / 9% reduced on CIF + duty + CT

What is the landed cost of a USD 40,000 FOB shipment of electronics into China?

On a USD 40,000 FOB parcel with ~8% freight and 0.5% insurance, CIF works out to USD 44,000. Applying 2% duty and 13% VAT brings total taxes to about USD 6,714 (~15.3% of CIF). Landed at buyer's warehouse ≈ USD 51,514.

Which HS code should I use for electronics in China?

Start with the 6-digit international HS heading - for example 8528.52 (Monitors, colour, capable of use with ADP). China customs then requires the full national code (10-digit HS). Confirm the exact line with your licensed customs broker before filing.

Which Incoterm is best for shipping electronics to China?

Most importers into China prefer CIF or CFR for sea freight so the seller arranges main-carriage transport, while retaining control of destination clearance. DDP shifts import duty and VAT to the seller - attractive to buyers but often priced with a risk premium. Compare all 11 Incoterms with our Landed Cost by HS & Country tool.

What documents does China customs need to clear HS 8528?

China uses a 10-digit HS extension of the 6-digit WCO HS. Digits 7-8 are the CN tariff sub-heading; 9-10 are statistical/regulatory. Regulated commodities may also require a health certificate, phytosanitary certificate or import licence depending on the exact HS line.