Bulk Mexican Panela Cheese from Japan
Panela is a firm, mild Mexican cheese often sold in bulk wheels for slicing, made from whole milk. It falls under HTS 0405.90.20 for cheeses not in consumer packages, eligible for duty-free USMCA entry via 9823.03.10 when meeting Mexican origin rules in general note 11. Ideal for food service and further processing.
Duty Rate — Japan → United States
12.5%
Rate breakdown
9903.05.4912.5%Except for products described in headings 9903.05.85–9903.05.92, articles the product of Japan, with an ad valorem (or ad valorem equivalent) rate of duty under column 1 less than 12.5 percent, as provided for in U.S. note 52 to this subchapter
Import Tips
• Declare exact cheese type and weight; bulk forms only qualify under 0405.90.20 for USMCA benefits
• Maintain cold chain documentation to meet FDA import requirements for perishable dairy
• Verify no retail packaging to prevent reclassification and duty assessment