HS Code for Fresh Cheese and Mozzarella
The HS Code for fresh cheese and mozzarella is 040610. The MFN duty rate for importing to the US is 20%.
| HS Code (6-digit) | 040610 |
|---|---|
| US Duty Rate (MFN) | 20% |
| EU Duty Rate (MFN) | €185.2/100kg |
| Chapter | 4 |
| Heading | 0406 |
| Last Updated | 2026-05 |
Description
Fresh cheese (unripened or uncured), including whey cheese
HS Code 040610 covers fresh, unripened cheeses including mozzarella with a US MFN duty rate of 20%.
Frequently Asked Questions
What specific customs inspection risks do I face when importing fresh cheese like Mozzarella under HTS 040610?
The primary risk is detention or refusal due to failure to meet U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requirements for dairy products, which mandate advance notice via the Prior Notice system and adherence to strict sanitary and refrigeration standards. Inspectors will also verify the product is truly 'fresh' and unripened, as any sign of curing or aging could lead to reclassification into a different, potentially quota-restricted HTS chapter, incurring higher duties.
What specific additional duties or fees apply when importing fresh cheese under HTS 040610 into the United States?
Beyond standard tariffs, imports of HTS 040610 fresh cheese are subject to US dairy import tariffs established under Section 22 of the Agricultural Adjustment Act, which can impose significant additional fees. Shipments may also incur merchandise processing fees (MPF) and, for certain countries, retaliatory tariffs, directly impacting the landed cost. You must check the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule's Chapter 4 Additional U.S. Note 16 for the current specific duty rates for cheese.
Compliance Notes for Fresh Cheese and Mozzarella (040610)
Imports under 040610 are subject to FDA food facility registration, prior notice of shipment, and strict labeling requirements for ingredients, allergens (milk), and nutritional information. Dairy products are often targeted for FDA sampling to test for pathogens like Listeria and for compliance with Standards of Identity (e.g., moisture and milkfat content for Mozzarella). Shipments typically require a manufacturer-issued Certificate of Analysis. Imports may also be subject to USDA Tariff-Rate Quotas (TRQs) for dairy, so verifying the current quota status is essential to avoid higher duty rates.
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