Pens; felt tipped and other porous-tipped pens and markers

HS code 960820 covers a diverse range of writing instruments, including felt-tipped pens and other porous-tipped pens and markers. This industry plays a vital role in the global stationery and office supplies market, catering to the needs of businesses, educational institutions, and individual consumers. These writing tools are essential for a wide range of applications, from note-taking and document preparation to artistic expression and creative pursuits, making them an integral part of the broader office and school supplies ecosystem.

The production of pens and markers under HS code 960820 typically involves a multi-step manufacturing process. This includes the fabrication of the pen body or casing, the selection and assembly of the internal components (such as the ink reservoir and nib), and the final assembly and packaging of the finished product. Manufacturers may utilize a range of materials, including plastics, metals, and specialized inks, and employ techniques like injection molding, precision machining, and automated assembly lines to ensure consistent quality and efficiency.

The main inputs required for the production of pens and markers under HS code 960820 include raw materials such as plastics, metals, and inks. Manufacturers may also rely on specialized machinery and equipment, including injection molding machines, precision cutting tools, and automated assembly lines. Additionally, the industry may require skilled labor, research and development capabilities, and access to distribution networks to ensure the timely delivery of finished products to end-users.

The primary output of the industry covered by HS code 960820 is a diverse range of writing instruments, including felt-tipped pens, markers, and other porous-tipped pens. These products are widely used in various sectors, such as 4901 Printed books, brochures, leaflets and similar printed matter, 4911 Other printed matter, and 4902 Newspapers, journals and periodicals, whether or not illustrated or containing advertising material, where they are essential for note-taking, document preparation, and creative expression. Additionally, these writing tools may be consumed by 9503 (Tricycles, scooters, pedal cars and similar wheeled toys; dolls' carriages; dolls; other toys; reduced-size ('scale') models and similar recreational models, working or not; puzzles of all kinds) and 9504 Video game consoles and machines, articles for funfair, table or parlor games, including pintables, billiards, special tables for casino games and automatic bowling alley equipment.