Mexican Cotija Cheese
Hard, salty aged cheese classified as fresh cheese under HTS 0406 when imported in wheel form before final grating. Qualifies under USMCA 9823.04.01 for Mexican production meeting origin rules. Essential ingredient in Mexican salads and bean dishes.
Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin
Alternative Classifications
This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.
If ripened beyond fresh cheese stage
Extended aging process classifies as ripened cheese rather than fresh cheese
If imported pre-crumbled with additives
Commercial preparation with seasonings shifts to Chapter 21 food preparations
If processed cheese product
Emulsified or blended cheese products have separate tariff classification
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
• Confirm cheese imported as whole wheels, not pre-grated, to maintain 0406 fresh cheese status,Include moisture and salt content analysis to distinguish from ripened cheese classifications,USMCA certification must trace milk source and processing entirely within Mexico territory
Related Products under HTS 9823.04.01
Mexican Queso Fresco Cheese
Fresh, unripened cheese made from cow's milk, typical in Mexican cuisine, classified under HTS 0406 as a fresh cheese excluding cottage cheese. This product qualifies for USMCA preferential treatment under 9823.04.01 when produced in Mexico meeting general note 11 origin rules. It's commonly used in tacos, salads, and as a table cheese.
Mexican Panela Cheese
Soft, mild white cheese made from unskimmed cow's milk, pressed into wheels, classified under HTS 0406.10 as fresh cheese. Qualifies for USMCA duty-free entry under 9823.04.01 when produced in Mexico per general note 11 rules. Popular for grilling and in fresh salsas.
Mexican Requesón Cheese
Creamy fresh cheese similar to ricotta, made from whey, classified under HTS 0406 fresh cheese provisions. USMCA 9823.04.01 eligible when produced in Mexico meeting regional value content rules. Used in enchiladas and desserts.
Mexican Teleme Cheese
Semi-soft fresh cheese with mild flavor, classified under HTS 0406, eligible for USMCA preferential treatment via 9823.04.01 when Mexican-made. Produced by acid coagulation of cow's milk. Popular table cheese in Mexico.
Mexican Campesino Fresh Cheese
Rustic fresh cheese made in small Mexican dairies, classified under HTS 0406 fresh (unripened) cheese provisions. Qualifies for duty-free USMCA entry under 9823.04.01 with proper origin certification. Traditional artisanal production method.
Mexican Oaxaca Cheese
Stringy fresh cheese similar to mozzarella, hand-stretched from cow's milk, classified under HTS 0406 as fresh cheese. USMCA 9823.04.01 eligible when produced meeting Mexican origin rules. Iconic for quesadillas.