Queso Fresco from Mexico
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 — Mexico → United States
10%
Rate breakdown
9903.05.5510%Section 301 (forced labor) — additional 10% ad valorem on products of Mexico
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