Fresh Labneh Cheese

Labneh, a strained yogurt cheese popular in Mexican production for US markets, classified under 0403.90.65. Qualifies for duty-free USMCA entry via 9823.03.05 as Mexican-origin yogurt cheese per general note 11. Known for its thick, spreadable texture.

Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin

Origin CountryMFN RateCh.99 SurchargesTotal Effective Rate
🇨🇳ChinaFree+10.0%10%
🇲🇽MexicoFree+10.0%10%
🇨🇦CanadaFree+10.0%10%
🇩🇪GermanyFree+10.0%10%
🇯🇵JapanFree+10.0%10%

Alternative Classifications

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

0403.90.78Higher: 17.5% vs 10%

If sweetened labneh variety

Added sugar variants classify separately under 0403.90.78 per tariff text.

0402.99.90.00Higher: 32.4% vs 10%

If considered concentrated/condensed milk product

Straining process may align with 0402 if not distinctly yogurt cheese.

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

Provide straining process documentation to confirm yogurt cheese status vs. plain yogurt

Maintain refrigeration chain; include temperature logs for FDA import clearance

Reference USMCA note 3(b)(2) specifically for this subheading eligibility

Related Products under HTS 9823.03.05

Mexican Queso Fresco Cheese

Queso fresco is a fresh, soft, unripened cheese made from cow's milk with a mild flavor and crumbly texture, commonly produced in Mexico. It falls under HTS 0403.90.65 as yogurt cheese, whether or not concentrated or containing added sugar or other sweetening matter, and qualifies for USMCA preferential treatment under 9823.03.05 when originating from Mexico. This classification covers fresh cheeses processed similarly to yogurt cheese.

Fromage Blanc Import

Fromage blanc is a creamy fresh cheese made from curdled milk, similar to yogurt cheese in production, imported from Mexican facilities. Classified under 0403.90.65 as it matches the yogurt cheese description in the USMCA context for duty-free entry via 9823.03.05. This soft cheese is unripened and often lightly salted.

Mexican TV Cheese (Tejuino Variant)

TV cheese refers to fresh Mexican cheese varieties processed from yogurt-like curds, classified as yogurt cheese under 0403.90.65. Eligible for USMCA duty-free entry under 9823.03.05 when produced in Mexico meeting general note 11 requirements. Typically soft and used in traditional dishes.

Concentrated Yogurt Cheese Whey Blend

Concentrated yogurt cheese incorporating whey, produced in Mexico for export under USMCA. Falls under 0403.90.65 covering concentrated yogurt cheese forms, qualifying for 9823.03.05 duty treatment. Used in cheese production and culinary applications.

Mexican Cream Cheese Spread

Soft cream cheese spread made via yogurt cheese fermentation in Mexico, under 0403.90.65. Enters duty-free under USMCA 9823.03.05 for qualifying Mexican goods. Popular for bagels and baking.

Queso Blanco Yogurt Cheese

Queso blanco produced using yogurt cheese methods in Mexican dairies, classified 0403.90.65. USMCA 9823.03.05 provides duty-free entry for compliant Mexican exports. Firm yet crumbly texture.