HS Code:
Subheading 0406.20.83 of the Harmonized System (HS) Code pertains to 'Grated or powdered cheese, of all kinds, other than Cheddar, processed, not grated or powdered.' This category includes a variety of processed cheese products that are typically used in culinary applications, food processing, and retail. These products are distinct from fresh or unprocessed cheeses and are often subject to specific import/export regulations due to dairy industry protections in many countries.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $1.2 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database, International Trade Centre (ITC)
$350 million USD
29.2% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$280 million USD
23.3% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$200 million USD
16.7% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$150 million USD
12.5% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$100 million USD
8.3% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
15% ad valorem
Highest Rate
35% (applied by certain developing countries with dairy protection policies)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as EU-USMCA)
Rising demand for processed cheese in fast food and ready-to-eat meals
Increased export opportunities for major producers like the US and EU countries, especially in Asia-Pacific markets
2021-2022
Shift toward plant-based cheese alternatives
Potential reduction in traditional processed cheese trade volumes as consumer preferences evolve
2022-2023
Stricter environmental and sustainability regulations
Higher production costs for dairy processors, potentially affecting export prices
2020-2022
The European Union finalized a trade agreement with several Asian countries, reducing tariffs on processed cheese exports under HS 0406.20.83 to 5% from 20%.
June 2023
Expected to boost EU exports to Asia by 15% over the next two years.
The United States relaxed export restrictions on processed cheese products to certain Latin American countries, following successful negotiations on SPS compliance.
March 2023
Increased market access for US producers, with projected trade growth of 10% in the region.
Canada introduced stricter sanitary standards for imported processed cheese, requiring additional certifications for products under this HS code.
January 2023
Potential delays and increased costs for exporters to Canada, particularly from non-NAFTA countries.