Sourcing EEPROM memory ICs from China

Zero duty on EEPROM memory ICs

Heading 8542 covers electronic integrated circuits. Non-flash EEPROM memory ICs fall under 8542 32 75 00; flash EEPROMs have separate capacity-based lines. The multi-component memory line applies only where the chapter-note definition is met, rather than simply because a device contains memory.

Read from the UK Trade Tariff on 30 September 2026, all the selected lines carried 0% duty for goods from China. The supplied tariff record lists no anti-dumping or countervailing duty, suspensions or attached import controls for these lines. Import VAT is separate from customs duty.

Confirm the commodity code using the datasheet, memory technology and construction. For other chip families, see integrated circuits and chips. Do not assume an assembled memory module uses the same code as a loose chip.

Specify the memory and programming behaviour

Specify the maker and complete part number, memory capacity, serial or parallel interface, supply voltage, package, pinout and temperature grade. Record the required write endurance, data retention, write timing and write-protection behaviour against the maker's datasheet. Agree whether parts arrive blank or programmed, and approve the programming file and verification method before dispatch.

Ask for original reel labels, lot records and paperwork traceable to the maker. Obtain part-specific hazardous-substance declarations for the finished-product compliance file. Supplier confirmation alone does not establish compliance: the finished-product manufacturer must determine whether its product complies with the hazardous-substance regulations.

Worked duty example

Illustrative example, not a quote: 50,000 EEPROM memory ICs on reels, illustrative order under 8542 32 75 00, invoiced at £40,000 free on board, with £600 of freight and insurance to the UK. The customs value is £40,600. Duty at 0% is £0. Import VAT at 20% is charged on the customs value plus duty, £40,600, so it is £8,120. With no duty, the only import tax is the VAT, which a VAT-registered importer can usually reclaim. The import duty and VAT guide explains each step.

Inspection checklist

Identity: check package markings, full part-number suffixes, reel labels and lot codes against the order and maker's records.

Programming: check capacity and addressing, write and read back test patterns, confirm write protection and verify any supplied programming file.

Electrical behaviour: check operation against the datasheet at the supply and temperature conditions of the ordered grade.

Packing: check electrostatic protection, any required sealed dry packing and humidity indicators; keep each lot separate and retain samples.

What goes wrong

A pin-compatible substitute can have different addressing, write timing or protection behaviour. A device may read correctly yet fail when the buyer's programmer writes it. Test samples with the intended programmer and board, including power removal and restoration after a completed write.

Remarked or recovered chips can conceal a different grade or uncertain write history. Mixed lots weaken traceability, while damaged packing can create assembly failures. Hold suspect lots apart, compare markings and electrical results with an approved sample, and resolve discrepancies before using the stock.

Cambridge China Bridge sources these products for UK businesses, checking the factory and the documents before shipment. See factory verification. For components and parts, see sourcing for manufacturers.