Microcassette Audio Tape from Japan
Microcassette tapes are miniature magnetic tapes narrower than 4 mm, originally developed for dictation recorders and portable voice recording devices. Classified under HTS 8523.29.40 for other magnetic tapes of ≤4 mm width, they record audio phenomena and remain popular for archival voice memos. Their compact size enables discreet, portable audio capture.
Duty Rate — Japan → United States
12.5%
Rate breakdown
9903.05.4912.5%Section 301 (forced labor) — Japan (col1 rate < 12.5 percent): MFN < 12.5% → total duty capped at 12.5%
Import Tips
• Provide technical drawings confirming tape width ≤4 mm to differentiate from wider cassette formats
• Check for pre-recorded content; unrecorded tapes import differently than those with embedded audio
• Use anti-static packaging to prevent magnetic degradation during ocean freight transit