Halloumi Cheese
Halloumi is a semi-hard, brined cheese originating from Cyprus, made from a mixture of goat and sheep milk with a distinctive squeaky texture when grilled. It falls under HTS 0406.90.63.00 as 'other cheese' described in general note 15, entered pursuant to its quota provisions for non-specified cheese varieties. This classification applies to imported halloumi meeting the import licensing requirements for dairy products.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If classified as Swiss or Emmentaler with eye formation
Specific quota subheading for Emmentaler-style cheeses with characteristic eyes takes precedence over general 'other' category
If outside general note 15 quota provisions
Non-quota cheeses enter under unrestricted 'other' subheading rather than licensed quota category
If processed as cheese substitute mixture with non-dairy additives
Products with added non-milk fats or emulsifiers exceeding natural cheese definitions classify as food preparations
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Import Tips & Compliance
• Obtain USDA import license prior to entry as this subheading requires compliance with general note 15 quota provisions; verify cheese meets 'other cheese' criteria excluding quota-specific types like Cheddar; declare exact milk type and fat content accurately to avoid reclassification
Related Products under HTS 0406.90.63.00
Feta Cheese PDO
Authentic Feta PDO is a protected designation white brined cheese made from sheep or goat milk in specific Greek regions. Classified under HTS 0406.90.63.00 as 'other cheese' pursuant to general note 15 provisions, as it doesn't fit enumerated quota categories like Italian or Swiss types. Import requires USDA licensing for this barrel-aged variety.
Queso Fresco
Queso fresco is a fresh, crumbly Mexican cheese made from cow's milk, lightly salted and pressed, used in tacos and salads. It qualifies under HTS 0406.90.63.00 as 'other cheese' entered pursuant to general note 15 quota provisions, distinct from quota-specific types like Edam or Parmesan. Licensing is mandatory for imports.
Paneer Cheese
Paneer is an Indian fresh acid-set cheese made from cow or buffalo milk, known for its firm texture in curries. Falls under HTS 0406.90.63.00 as 'other cheese' under general note 15 quota provisions, as it doesn't match specific enumerated cheese types. Requires import licensing.
Ricotta Salata
Ricotta salata is salted, aged ricotta from sheep's whey, pressed into firm blocks for grating. Classified in HTS 0406.90.63.00 as 'other cheese' pursuant to general note 15, suitable for whey-derived products not meeting cheese concentration criteria. Import subject to quota licensing.
Manchego Cheese
Manchego is a Spanish sheep's milk cheese aged from 2 months to 2 years, with PDO status and natural rind. Enters under HTS 0406.90.63.00 as 'other cheese' via general note 15 quota, not fitting Italian, Swiss, or other specific categories. Licensing required.
Cheshire Cheese
Cheshire is a crumbly, full-fat English cow's milk cheese with tangy flavor, available in red or white varieties. Classified under HTS 0406.90.63.00 as general 'other cheese' pursuant to quota provisions in general note 15. Subject to import licensing.