At present, the Paris Olympic Games have concluded, and the 17th Summer Paralympic Games has kicked off, with 4,400 Paralympic athletes from 184 delegations set to compete."
From the prosthetic limbs worn by athletes in track and field events to various new-material sports equipment and assistive devices, the development of disabled sports is showing rapid advancements with the progress of science and technology. Next, we will explain the classification of some special sports assistive devices used in the Paralympic Games.
I. Wheelchairs
Wheelchairs, generally speaking, are chairs equipped with wheels that can help replace walking. They are categorized into non-mechanical and mechanical drives. Wheelchairs are essential mobility tools for home rehabilitation, transportation, medical visits, and outdoor activities for people with disabilities. Wheelchairs are widely used in the Paralympic Games, in events such as wheelchair tennis, wheelchair racing, wheelchair rugby, and wheelchair basketball.
Classification Suggestion: Wheelchairs, as a type of vehicle for the disabled, should be classified under 8713 according to the 2024 edition of the Customs Import and Export Tariff of the People's Republic of China (hereinafter referred to as "Tariff"). Among them, non-mechanically driven wheelchairs are classified under tariff line 8713.1000; mechanically driven wheelchairs are classified under tariff line 8713.9000.
II. Prostheses
Prosthesis is an artificial limb specially designed and fabricated using engineering technology to make up for amputated or partially damaged limbs. It is also known as a "prosthetic limb". The blade prostheses in the Paralympic track and field events are impressive.
Classification Suggestion: Prosthetic limbs, as artificial human parts, should be classified under tariff line 9021.3900 according to the Tariff.
III. Hearing Aids
A hearing aid is an electrical device consisting of a circuit with one or more microphones (with or without an amplifier), earphones, and batteries that can be used to help overcome deafness. Although there are no separate events for hearing impairments in the Paralympic Games, many athletes with physical or visual impairments, who also have hearing impairments, need hearing aids.
Classification Suggestion: Hearing aids are explicitly listed in the tariff schedule and should be classified under tariff line 9021.4000.
IV. Throwing Stool
The throwing bench is special equipment used by athletes in the field events of the Paralympic track and field competitions for wheelchair categories 51 to 59. The maximum height, including seat cushions, must not exceed 75 cm. Metal or glass armrests are allowed. The chief referee of the competition is primarily responsible for assessing the safety of the throwing stool.
Classification Suggestion: Throwing stools generally have metal frames and include cushions. According to the tariff code, they should be classified under 9401. If the cushion is made of leather or recycled leather, the throwing stool as a whole is classified under tariff line 9401.7110. If the cushion is made of other materials, it is classified under tariff line 9401.7190.
V. Swimming Tapping Stick
In regular swimming competitions, swimmers accelerate and roll forward to touch the wall, then turn back and swim back. In competitions for swimmers with visual impairments, there is an assistant known as a 'Tapper.' They use a "tapping device" to tell swimmers when to turn or when approaching the wall. This device is usually a pole with a soft end, used to gently tap the swimmer on the head, shoulder, or back.
Classification Suggestion: According to the Tariff Code and the Import and Export Tariff Code and Notes, swimming tapping rods should be classified under tariff line 9506.9990.
VI. Swimming Goggles for the Blind
In Paralympic swimming events, blind athletes must wear goggles when competing. The swimming goggles are completely black and opaque. After the competition, referees will inspect the goggles. They must be fully opaque to pass inspection; otherwise, the results will be invalid.
Classification Suggestion: According to the Tariff Code, blind swimming goggles should be classified under tariff line 9004.9090.
Disclaimer：The above content is translated from Chinese version of this website. The Chinese version shall prevail.