The silver economy encompasses a wide range of economic activities that include providing products and services to the elderly, as well as preparations for the aging stage. Data from the National Bureau of Statistics show that by the end of 2023, there are 297 million people aged 60 and above in China, accounting for 21.1% of the national population, including 217 million people aged 65 and above, accounting for 15.4%. Demand has given rise to a market where the silver economy encompasses all facets of the senior population, including clothing, food, housing, transportation, and healthcare. The following sections will introduce the categorization of certain products within the silver economy.
I. Health Management Equipment
(i) Sphygmomanometer
Used for measuring systolic pressure, diastolic pressure and pulse rate of the elderly. It is mainly composed of pressurized air pump, electronic control exhaust valve, air pressure sensor and display device. The operational principle involves controlling the air pump to apply pressure to the cuff. A pressure sensor detects changes in cuff pressure caused by blood vessel pulsations and converts these into electrical signals. The blood pressure monitor chip then uses these signals to determine the pulse rate and calculate both systolic and diastolic pressures.
Under Chapters 1 & 6 of the Provisions of the Customs of the People's Republic of China on the Administration of the Commodity Classification of Import and Export Goods, it shall be classified under tariff line 9018.9020.
(ii) Oxygen generator
The system primarily comprises an oxygen generator, a flow meter, a humidifier bottle, and other components. It can be directly connected to an oxygen hose and oxygen mask to enhancing the body's oxygen supply. It is mainly suitable for the elderly and other people with different degrees of physiological hypoxia who need health care.
Under Chapters 1 & 6 of the Provisions of the Customs of the People's Republic of China on the Administration of the Commodity Classification of Import and Export Goods, it shall be classified under tariff line 8421.3910.
II. Supplementary Foods
(i) High-calcium formula milk powder for middle-aged and elderly people (modified milk powder)
It is designed to supplement nutrition for middle-aged and senior individuals. The primary components include skimmed milk powder, dietary fiber, bovine colostrum powder, minerals, and vitamins. It is produced in a powdered form using a concentrated dry process technique.
Its ingredients contain substances beyond the scope permitted by Chapter IV of the Customs Import and Export Tariff of the People's Republic of China (hereinafter referred to as the "Tariff"), which shall be classified under the tariff line 1901.9000 according to the Chapters 1 & 6 of the Provisions of the Customs of the People's Republic of China on the Administration of the Commodity Classification of Import and Export Goods.
(ii) Fish oil capsules
The ingredients are deep-sea fish oil (EPA, pentacosapentaenoic acid, DHA, docosahexaenoic acid) encapsulated in gelatin capsules. Both EPA and DHA are fatty acids present in fish oil itself.
Under Chapters 1 & 6 of the Provisions of the Customs of the People's Republic of China on the Administration of the Commodity Classification of Import and Export Goods, it shall be classified under tariff line 1504.2000.
III. Home Health Equipment
(i) Intelligent falling alarm
This product is an emergency response device designed to safeguard the safety of the elderly, featuring one-button emergency calls, automatic fall detection alerts, and automatic voice prompts. Once worn, it allows for instant contact with designated individuals in emergencies.
This product is a telephone device using a cellular network, non-handheld, with capabilities for detection and remote data communication. It adheres to the description under Heading 85.17 and its subcategories in the Tariff.
Under Chapters 1 & 6 of the Provisions of the Customs of the People's Republic of China on the Administration of the Commodity Classification of Import and Export Goods, it shall be classified under tariff line 8517.1490.
(ii) Nursing bed
It is typically a motorized bed, consisting of a headboard frame, footboard frame, bed frame, backrest, fixed bed surface, and thigh support surface, etc. It is designed to meet the living habits and treatment needs of bedridden elderly individuals, offering multiple nursing functionalities. These include back support for dining, scheduled repositioning, and bedsores prevention. The bed allows for body positioning adjustments, facilitates sanitation needs, and features adjustable guardrails and living surfaces, as well as an infusion stand for medical needs.
Under Chapters 1 & 6 of the Provisions of the Customs of the People's Republic of China on the Administration of the Commodity Classification of Import and Export Goods, it shall be classified under tariff line 9402.9000.
IV. Travel Aids
(i) Rollator
Also known as a "walking aids" , it is an aid for walking. Generally, there are metal frames and armrests equipped with three or four wheels. Seats and metal baskets can be installed between the armrests, and hand brake and parking brake are provided. The rollator is height-adjustable, allowing elderly individuals to either walk independently or sit down to rest. The basket is convenient for carrying personal items, making it suitable for seniors with mobility challenges.
Under Chapters 1 & 6 of the Provisions of the Customs of the People's Republic of China on the Administration of the Commodity Classification of Import and Export Goods, it shall be classified under tariff line 9021.1000.
(ii) Scooter for the elderly
It consists of a foldable frame, a motor and a controller, and is driven by battery power. The elderly can control the driving direction and speed of the electric wheelchair by operating the joystick.
Such products meet the description of Heading 87.13 and its sub-headings in the Tariff. Under Chapters 1 & 6 of the Provisions of the Customs of the People's Republic of China on the Administration of the Commodity Classification of Import and Export Goods, it shall be classified under tariff line 8713.9000.
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