HS Code:
The category of 'Containing, or processed from, Swiss, Emmentaler, or Gruyere-process cheese' falls under specific HS Codes related to processed cheese products (typically HS 0406.30). This category includes cheeses that are either made from or contain Swiss, Emmentaler, or Gruyere varieties, often used in processed forms for retail or industrial purposes. These cheeses are known for their distinct flavors and textures, with Swiss and Emmentaler characterized by their iconic holes and nutty taste, and Gruyere noted for its creamy, earthy profile. This category is significant in global dairy trade due to the popularity of these cheeses in various cuisines, particularly in Europe and North America. Trade in this category is influenced by strict geographical indications (GI) and appellation of origin protections, especially in the European Union, which restrict the use of these names to specific regions.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $1.2 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and International Trade Centre (ITC)
$450 million USD
37.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$300 million USD
25.0% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$200 million USD
16.7% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$100 million USD
8.3% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$80 million USD
6.7% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
15% ad valorem
Highest Rate
35% (imposed by certain developing countries to protect local dairy industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under EU-Switzerland trade agreements and other free trade agreements)
Growing demand for premium and specialty cheeses
Increased exports from Switzerland and France to high-income markets like the US and Japan, driven by consumer preference for authentic, GI-protected cheeses.
2021-2022
Rise in plant-based and processed cheese alternatives
Slight competition for traditional processed Swiss and Gruyere cheeses in price-sensitive markets, though niche demand for authentic products persists.
2020-2022
Sustainability and ethical sourcing focus
European exporters adopting more sustainable dairy practices to meet consumer and regulatory demands, potentially increasing production costs.
2022
A bilateral agreement was reached to clarify the use of 'Gruyere' as a generic term in the US, despite European objections, allowing American producers to use the name under specific conditions.
January 2023
Potential increase in US domestic production and exports of Gruyere-style cheese, creating competition for European exporters.
Switzerland introduced stricter regulations to ensure that only cheese produced in designated regions with traditional methods can be labeled as Emmentaler, aiming to protect brand authenticity.
March 2022
Likely to boost consumer trust in Swiss exports but may reduce supply flexibility and increase prices.
The EU implemented temporary export subsidies for dairy products, including processed cheeses, to counteract market disruptions caused by geopolitical tensions and supply chain issues.
October 2022
Expected to enhance competitiveness of EU exporters like Germany and France in global markets, potentially increasing trade volume.