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April 30, 2026

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GST Rates & HSN Code for Headings 8519/8521 Explained

If you are dealing in electronics, especially devices that record or reproduce sound and video, HSN classification plays a critical role in your GST compliance. Many businesses assume that all electronics fall under the same category, but that is where mistakes begin.

Chapter 85, particularly Headings 8529 and 8521, regulates the recording or reproducing of equipment related to audio and video. Although both groups might seem to be similar, it all depends on the functionality of the device to classify them.

This blog has created everything down to make you see what falls under each title, the GST rates that are to be applied, and how to avoid the most common errors in classifications.

What are HSN Codes 8519 and 8521?

The HSN codes are a part of the system that is universally accepted for the classification of goods. These codes are used in India under GST to find out the rate of a product and bring consistency in taxation.

HSN 8519 covers sound recording or reproducing apparatus
A video recording and producing device is included in HSN 8521

Both headings are considered in Chapter 85, which covers electrical machinery and electrical equipment. The difference between the two is in the fact that one, the device, supports only audio or has video functionality.

HSN Code 8519 - Sound Recording or Reproducing Apparatus

These are also devices that are solely sound-based and do not require video playback or recording.

Examples of Products Under 8519

Cassette players and tape recorders
CD players and audio systems
MP3 players and portable music devices
Turntables and vinyl record players
Telephone answering machines

These are simply sound devices and have no video playback or recordings.

GST Rate on HSN 8519

Product Category	GST Rate	Remarks
Sound recording or reproducing apparatus	18%	Input Tax Credit available

HSN Code 8521 - Video Recording or Reproducing Apparatus

HSN 8521 covers those devices that handle video content. We have these products that record video, reproduce it, or both.

Examples of Products Under 8521

Video cassette recorders (VCRs)
DVD and Blu-ray players
Digital video recorders (DVRs)
Video playback and recording systems used in studios

They can also have audio capabilities; however, they are mostly video recording or video playback devices and so fall in this category.

GST Rate on HSN 8521

Product Category	GST Rate	Remarks
Video recording or reproducing apparatus	18%	Input Tax Credit available

Similar to HSN 8519, most products under HSN 8521 are taxed at 18%, making compliance simpler and more predictable.

What is HSN Code 8519/8521?

For headings 8519 and 8521, classification depends on:

The primary function of the device
Whether it records or reproduces sound, video, or both
The technical specifications and intended use

Correct classification ensures that your GST returns match your invoices and reduces the risk of notices from tax authorities.

GST on Parts and Accessories - HSN Code 8522

If your business deals in spare parts or accessories of audio and video equipment, they fall under a separate classification.

HSN Code	Description	GST Rate
8522	Parts and accessories for devices under 8519/8521	18%

This includes:

Pick-up cartridges
Audio heads and video heads
Mechanical or electronic components used in these devices

Even though these are not finished products, they are taxed at the same 18% rate.

GST for Import and Export

To the companies engaged in international trade, the classification is even more crucial.

Key Points to Remember

Imports attract IGST based on the HSN classification
Exports are generally zero-rated supplies
An 8-digit HSN code is mandatory for import/export documentation

The appropriate use of HSN permits facilitated customs clearance and prevents the loss of time and penalties.

Practical Classification Scenarios

Theory is also useful in determining, but practice elucidates theory.

Scenario 1: MP3 Player

An MP3 player can be used single-handedly to play the audio. It can be loaded with different upgraded features, but it will fall under HSN 8519.

Scenario 2: DVD Player

The video material is primarily viewed through a DVD player. It is a part of HSN 8521.

Scenario 3: Smart Multimedia Device

In case the device can be used both in audio and video, then it will be categorized as to which of these activities will be the most significant. Where playback of videos is prevalent, this is classified under 8521.

Key Compliance Tips

1. Classify based on primary function

Always identify what the device mainly does. This determines the correct HSN code.

2. Use correct HSN digits in Invoices

Businesses whose turnover is up to 4-digit turnover can adopt 4-digit HSN codes.
Businesses having a turnover of more than 5 crore should apply 6-digit codes of HSN.

3. Maintain Proper Documentation

Ensure that invoices clearly mention:

Product description
HSN code
GST rate

4. Stay updated with notifications

GST rates and classification may change over time. Keeping track of updates helps avoid compliance issues.

Conclusion

HSN 8519/8521 deals with a wide selection of audio and video recording equipment, and they will both be charged a standard rate of GST, which is 18%. The rate itself is simple, but the category should be looked into in detail.

In the case of electronics, the best choice is to grasp the fundamental functionality of the product and categorise it, in this case. This little measure can get you off the hook later in the form of compliance problems, fines, and misunderstandings.

Using SWIPE, you can create invoices with the appropriate HSN codes, Mark the right GST rates automatically, and remain one hundred percent compliant without having to second-guess your own calculations. SWIPE and do away with numerous GSTs.