Queso Fresco from Japan
Queso fresco is a fresh, crumbly Mexican cheese made from cow's milk, lightly salted and pressed. Though technically fresh, its commercial importation falls under ripened/other due to curing characteristics. Classified in HTS 0406.90.97.00 as cow's milk cheese excluding quota categories.
Duty Rate — Japan → United States
12.5%
Rate breakdown
9903.05.4912.5%Section 301 (forced labor) — Japan (col1 rate < 12.5 percent): MFN < 12.5% → total duty capped at 12.5%
Import Tips
• Require Certificate of Origin proving Mexican production (excluded from dairy quotas unlike other countries)
• Test for moisture content; very high moisture may reclassify as fresh cheese under 0406.10
• Avoid common error of classifying as cottage cheese; distinct pressing/texture differentiates it