HTS Code 900110: Optical fibers, optical fiber bundles and cables — 2026 US Tariff Rates
Quick Answer
HTS 900110 = Optical fibers, optical fiber bundles and cables
Duty rate: 6.7% · Unit: 90-digit · Column 1: 6.7%
Complete Classification Table
All 8-digit and 10-digit tariff codes under HTS subheading 900110. Use this table to find the correct statistical suffix and applicable duty rate for your product.
| HTS Code | Full Description | General Rate | Special Rate | Column 2 Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
9001.10.00 |
Optical fibers, optical fiber bundles and cables | 6.7% | Free (A*,AU,BH,CL,CO,D,E,IL,JO,KR,MA,OM,P,PA,PE,S,SG) | 65% |
9001.10.00.30 |
For transmission of voice, data or video communications | — | — | — |
9001.10.00.50 |
Plastic optical fibers | — | — | — |
9001.10.00.70 |
Other | — | — | — |
9001.10.00.75 |
Plastic optical fiber bundles and cables | — | — | — |
9001.10.00.85 |
Other | — | — | — |
Quick Answer: HTS 900110 Duty Rates
HTS subheading 900110 (optical fibers, optical fiber bundles and cables) contains 6 sub-classifications.
Suffix 9001.10.00: General rate 6.7%, Special (FTA): Free (A*,AU,BH,CL,CO,D,E,IL,JO,KR,MA,OM,P,PA,PE,S,SG).
Always verify with CBP — Section 301, Section 232, and ADD/CVD may apply.
Chapter 90 Frequently Asked Questions
Do medical devices need FDA clearance before importation?
Yes. All medical devices imported into the US must be registered with FDA CDRH. Class I devices require establishment registration and device listing. Class II devices require 510(k) premarket notification. Class III devices require Premarket Approval (PMA). Importing without proper clearance results in FDA detention and refusal of admission.
Are medical devices subject to Section 301 tariffs?
Certain Chinese-origin medical and scientific instruments face Section 301 List 1 additional duties of 25%. However, many medical devices were excluded from Section 301 during the COVID-19 pandemic, and some exclusions have been extended. Check the USTR exclusion list for your specific product.
Can medical devices enter the US duty-free?
Many medical devices qualify for duty-free treatment under the WTO Pharmaceutical Agreement and various FTAs (USMCA, US-Australia, US-Singapore). The duty-free treatment depends on the specific HTS subheading and country of origin. Check the Special rate column for FTA preferences.
How are laboratory instruments classified differently from medical instruments?
Laboratory instruments used for scientific research (microscopes, spectrometers, chromatographs) fall under headings 9027-9031. Medical instruments used for diagnosis or treatment (syringes, catheters, surgical tools) fall under heading 9018. If an instrument is used for both, classification depends on the principal intended use.
What is a 510(k) premarket notification?
A 510(k) is a premarket submission to FDA demonstrating that a medical device is at least as safe and effective (substantially equivalent) to a legally marketed device. It is required for most Class II devices. The review takes approximately 90 days. Without 510(k) clearance, the device cannot be legally imported or sold in the US.
Duty Calculation Tips for HTS 900110
Most medical devices qualify for duty-free treatment under various FTAs and the WTO Pharmaceutical Agreement. Section 301 List 1 (25%) applies to certain Chinese-origin medical and scientific instruments. FDA CDRH registration and 510(k) clearance or PMA approval may be required before importation. Verify both HTS classification and FDA status before shipping.
HTS Chapter 90 Classification Guide: Optical, Photographic, Medical & Scientific Instruments
Chapter 90 covers precision instruments — optical, photographic, medical, surgical, measuring, checking, and scientific instruments. Classification depends on the instrument's function and application. Medical devices are heavily regulated by FDA CDRH, and classification requires understanding both HTS and FDA regulatory frameworks.
Common Misclassification Errors
- Classifying medical devices by material instead of function — an endoscope is classified under 9018 (medical instruments) regardless of whether it contains optical fiber or stainless steel
- Confusing measuring instruments (9031) with medical diagnostic instruments (9018) — the intended use determines the heading
- Failing to register medical devices with FDA CDRH before importation — registration is separate from HTS classification but equally mandatory
Importing Under HTS 900110: What Importers Ask
How do I verify the correct HTS classification before importing?
Request a binding ruling from CBP's National Commodity Specialist Division. The ruling is valid for 5 years and is binding on all CBP ports. Alternatively, consult a licensed customs broker for a classification opinion. Misclassification can result in retroactive duties and Section 592 penalties.
Can I get duty-free treatment under an FTA for this product?
Check the Special rate column on this page for FTA preferences. If a preferential rate is listed, verify your product meets the FTA's specific rules of origin. All FTAs require origin certification — USMCA, KORUS, and others have specific documentation requirements.
What documentation is required at the port of entry?
At minimum: commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, and CBP Form 7501 (Entry Summary). Depending on the product, additional documentation may include FTA certificate of origin, FDA prior notice, USDA phytosanitary certificate, or TSCA certification. CBP may request the foreign supplier's manufacturing records.
What Importers Need to Know About HTS Chapter 90
This subheading falls under an HTS chapter covering optical, photographic, medical, and scientific instruments including microscopes, medical imaging equipment, measuring devices, and laboratory apparatus. Importers of these products should be aware of the following trade compliance considerations:
Medical devices are regulated by FDA CDRH. 510(k) clearance or PMA may be required. Most scientific instruments qualify for duty-free treatment under various FTAs. Section 301 List 1 (25%) applies to certain Chinese-origin medical and scientific instruments.
For the specific subheading HTS 900110, we recommend you:
- Verify the correct 10-digit statistical suffix — even within a 6-digit subheading, duty rates can differ significantly between suffixes
- Check FTA eligibility — if your product qualifies for preferential treatment under USMCA, KORUS, or another FTA, you may reduce or eliminate duties by providing the required origin certification
- Monitor for trade remedy changes — Section 301, Section 232, and anti-dumping duties are updated periodically. A rate that was correct last quarter may have changed
- Consult CBP resources — for binding classification rulings, CBP's National Commodity Specialist Division provides written determinations
At a Glance
- The General duty rate for HTS 900110 is 6.7% · 6 statistical suffixes · 0 duty-free.
- 1 sub-classification offer Special (FTA) rate preferences — check the Special column for USMCA, KORUS, and other FTA eligibility.
- This code falls under a chapter covering optical, photographic, medical, and scientific instruments including microscopes, medical imaging equipment, measuring devices, and laboratory apparatus.
Duty Estimator
This page lists rates that may be ad valorem, specific, compound, or quota-based. The automatic estimator is intentionally disabled so a quantity-based rate is never mistaken for a percentage. Use the exact suffix, unit of quantity, origin, and current CBP guidance before calculating a shipment.
Official Sources
PoliteDraft recommends verifying duty rates directly with official government sources before filing import documentation.
Independent editors organize official USITC HTS data and explain how to check the exact suffix, unit, origin, and trade remedies. This site is a research reference, not a customs broker, attorney, or classification opinion.
Related HTS Codes in This Section
Related Chapters
HTS Chapter 90 is frequently cross-referenced with the following chapters in supply chain and trade compliance workflows.
Trade & Compliance Insights for Chapter 90
Expert analysis on tariff policy, trade remedies, and compliance strategies relevant to HTS 900110.
View all insights →Browse All HTS Codes in This Section
See the complete list of HTS subheadings under the same section as 900110.
View Section Overview →<strong>Editorial note:</strong> The first listed General rate for HTS 900110 (Optical fibers, optical fiber bundles and cables) is 6.7%. Rates can differ by suffix, origin, and trade remedy; verify the exact line in the current USITC schedule and with CBP or a licensed customs broker.