As global trade policies continue to evolve, a recent update from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) brings potentially big savings for Pro AV buyers, integrators, and importers.
On April 5, 2025, a Presidential Memorandum clarified exemptions under Executive Order 14257—part of a reciprocal tariff strategy targeting trade imbalances. The memorandum carves out a wide range of electronics, storage, and display technologies from these tariffs. The result? Many products commonly used in Pro AV installations may now enter the U.S. tariff-free, provided importers follow updated customs procedures.
What’s Covered?
Among the HTSUS (Harmonized Tariff Schedule) codes excluded from reciprocal tariffs are several that directly impact the Pro AV world:
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HTS 8471 & 8473.30 – Computers, servers, and parts (media servers, control processors, etc.)
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HTS 8528.52.00 – Monitors and projectors not designed for residential TV use
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HTS 8523.51.00 – Solid-state storage (used in digital signage players and AV recorders)
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HTS 8541.10 – 8541.59 – LEDs, optoelectronics, and diodes (used in MicroLED, OLED, and LED video walls)
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HTS 8542 – Integrated circuits and processors powering AV gear
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HTS 8517.13.00 / 8517.62.00 – Network routers and unified comms hardware
These product categories are not just niche—they're foundational to AV system design, especially in areas like AV-over-IP, collaboration systems, and large-scale display projects.
Why It Matters
For Pro AV businesses, this could mean significant savings on equipment that's traditionally subject to 15–25% import tariffs under previous trade enforcement measures—especially for those importing from China.
But there’s a catch:
You must properly declare the exemption using secondary code 9903.01.32 during customs entry. And if you've already paid the tariff on qualifying products imported on or after April 5, 2025, you can file for a refund using a post summary correction.
What Integrators and Distributors Should Do
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Review the HTS codes of your imported equipment.
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Work with your customs broker to ensure 9903.01.32 is applied when eligible.
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Act fast—corrections must be made within 10 days of CBP cargo release.
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Consider re-pricing long-lead projects now that duties may be lower.
Final Thought
In a climate where every percentage point counts, this tariff relief offers a rare win. For AV professionals navigating rising costs and global supply shifts, it’s an opportunity to optimize procurement, pricing, and project profitability.
The Pro AV industry has always been about staying ahead of the curve—and sometimes, that means knowing your tariff codes as well as your tech specs.
