Bulk Mexican Panela Cheese from Mexico
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 — Mexico → United States
10%
Rate breakdown
9903.05.5510%Except for products described in headings 9903.05.85–9903.05.92 and 9903.05.94, articles the product of Mexico, 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