Mexican Chongos Frescos from China
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.
Duty Rate — China → United States
27.5%
Rate breakdown
9903.03.0110%Except for products described in headings 9903.03.02–9903.03.11, articles the product of any country, as provided for in subdivision (aa) of U.S. note 2 to this subchapter
9903.88.157.5%Except as provided in headings 9903.88.39, 9903.88.42, 9903.88.44, 9903.88.47, 9903.88.49, 9903.88.51, 9903.88.53, 9903.88.55, 9903.88.57, 9903.88.65, 9903.88.66, 9903.88.67, 9903.88.68, or 9903.88.69, articles the product of China, as provided for in U.S. note 20(r) to this subchapter and as provided for in the subheadings enumerated in U.S. note 20(s)
Import Tips
• 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