8524 - Flat panel display modules, whether or not incorporating touch-sensitive screens:

Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) code 8524 encompasses flat panel display modules. These are essential components used in a vast array of electronic devices, from televisions and computer monitors to smartphones and tablets. The key characteristic is their flat design, differing from older cathode ray tube (CRT) technology. This category includes display panels that may or may not have integrated touch-sensitive screens, meaning the functionality of touch input does not preclude classification here, provided the primary item is the display module itself.

This HTS code is situated within Section XVI, specifically Chapter 85, which deals with electrical machinery and equipment. While Chapter 85 covers a broad spectrum of electrical goods, 8524 is distinct in its focus on the display technology itself, rather than complete electronic devices such as finished televisions (which would typically fall under HTS 8528) or separate touch sensors that are not part of a display module. It is crucial to distinguish these modules from standalone screens or parts of larger assemblies where the display is not the primary component.

Within HTS 8524, further subdivisions exist to refine classification based on the presence or absence of integrated driver or control circuits. The category "Without drivers or control circuits" pertains to the basic display panel itself, requiring external electronic components for operation. Conversely, "Other" encompasses display modules that include these necessary driver and control circuits, allowing them to function with less external support. This distinction is vital for determining appropriate duty rates and regulatory compliance for imported and exported goods.