Mexican Chongos Frescos
Chongos frescos are a traditional Mexican fresh cheese made by curdling milk with rennet and sugar, resulting in soft, sweet curd balls typically served in syrup. This unripened whey cheese falls under HTS 0406.10.02.00 as it is specifically described in general note 15 (NAFTA/USMCA provisions) for duty-free entry from Mexico. It meets the criteria for fresh cheese and curd without ripening or curing.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If entered without general note 15 provisions
Fresh cheeses not qualifying for GN15 duty-free treatment fall under other fresh cheese subheadings with standard tariff rates.
If fermented or acidified but not molded as cheese
Products resembling yogurt or curd without cheese characteristics may classify as fermented milk preparations outside Chapter 4 cheese headings.
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Import Tips & Compliance
• Obtain USMCA certificate of origin to qualify under general note 15 for duty-free entry; verify product meets fresh chongos description to avoid reclassification
• Secure any required USDA import licenses due to dairy quotas; ensure proper refrigeration during transit to maintain freshness
Related Products under HTS 0406.10.02.00
Chongos Potosinos
Chongos potosinos from San Luis Potosí, Mexico, are delicate fresh cheese curds formed into small balls, sweetened and often packed in syrup for dessert. Classified under HTS 0406.10.02.00 pursuant to general note 15, as unripened whey cheese eligible for preferential USMCA treatment. The product's soft texture and lack of curing distinguish it as fresh cheese.
Sweetened Chongos Curd Cheese
Sweetened chongos curd cheese is a fresh, unripened Mexican dairy product made from rennet-coagulated milk whey, formed into custard-like balls in light syrup. It qualifies for HTS 0406.10.02.00 under general note 15 for Mexican-origin goods, as a specific type of fresh whey cheese without curing. Traditional preparation keeps it distinctly in the fresh cheese category.
Traditional Mexican Chongos in Syrup
Traditional Mexican chongos in syrup are soft, fresh curds from milk whey, sweetened with piloncillo cane sugar and cinnamon, uncooked and unripened. This product is entered under HTS 0406.10.02.00 as described in general note 15 for USMCA-qualified Mexican imports. Its fresh state and whey base align perfectly with fresh cheese definitions.
Artisanal Frescos Chongos
Artisanal frescos chongos are handmade fresh Mexican whey cheeses, curdled slowly with rennet into tender balls preserved in mild syrup. Classified in HTS 0406.10.02.00 pursuant to general note 15 for preferential treatment of qualifying Mexican dairy. Remains fresh and unripened, fitting Chapter 4 fresh cheese provisions.