Share:

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.

Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin

Origin CountryMFN RateCh.99 SurchargesTotal Effective Rate
๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณChina10%+17.5%27.5%
๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝMexico10%+10.0%20%
๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฆCanada10%+10.0%20%
๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ชGermany10%+10.0%20%
๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ตJapan10%+10.0%20%

Alternative Classifications

This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.

0406.10.04Same rate: 27.5%

If meeting general cheese quota weight limits

Fresh soft cheeses may qualify under broader quota categories excluding specifics

0406.40.54Higher: 32.5% vs 27.5%

If blue-mold processed variant

Blue-mold cheeses have separate quota subheadings regardless of origin

2106.90.85Same rate: 27.5%

If blended with vegetable fats as substitute

Non-milkfat additions move classification to food preparations chapter

Not sure which classification is right?

Our AI classifier can analyze your specific product and recommend the correct HTS code with confidence.

Import Tips & Compliance

โ€ข Verify acid coagulation method in documentation to distinguish from rennet cheeses; obtain quota license as Indian paneer enters under licensed provisions; watch for reclassification to curd if sold unpressed

Related Products under HTS 0406.90.63.00

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.

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.

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.