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.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If low butterfat content (0.5% or less)
Qualifies for separate low-fat cheese quota rather than general other cheese
If Gruyere-process or eye-free Emmentaler
Specific Swiss-type cheeses without eyes have dedicated subheadings
If fermented but classified as dried fermented cream
Material composition shifts to dairy preparations if moisture content is low
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
• Apply for USDA import license early as Mexican products are excluded from some quotas but may route through this licensed code; label moisture and salt content precisely; avoid common pitfall of classifying as curd under 0406.30 if not properly pressed
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.
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.