Mexican Queso Fresco from Japan

Fresh Mexican queso fresco is a soft, unripened cheese made from cow's milk, typically crumbled or sliced for use in tacos and salads. Classified under HTS 0405.90.20 as cheese not in original packages for retail sale, it qualifies for USMCA preferential treatment under 9823.03.10 when originating from Mexico per general note 11. This subheading applies specifically to bulk or processed cheese forms intended for further commercial use.

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%

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Import Tips

• Obtain USMCA certificate of origin proving Mexican production to claim free duty under 9823.03.10

• Ensure FDA prior notice and import alerts compliance for dairy products; provide pasteurization certificates

• Avoid misclassification as retail-packed cheese under 0406; bulk only for 0405.90.20 eligibility