HS Code:
Subheading 0406.30.83 of the Harmonized System (HS) Code pertains to processed cheese, not grated or powdered, in packages containing more than 40% by weight of butterfat, and not otherwise specified or included. This category includes various types of processed cheese products that are widely used in food service and retail sectors globally. These products are typically manufactured by blending natural cheese with emulsifiers, stabilizers, and sometimes other dairy ingredients to achieve a consistent texture and flavor.
Total Trade Volume
USD 1.2 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
USD 350 million
29.2% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 250 million
20.8% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 180 million
15.0% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 120 million
10.0% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 90 million
7.5% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
15.3% ad valorem
Highest Rate
35% (applied by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-USMCA)
Rising demand for convenience foods
Increased consumption of processed cheese in fast food and ready-to-eat meals, driving export growth in key markets like the US and EU.
2021-2022
Shift towards plant-based alternatives
Emerging competition from vegan cheese products, slightly impacting traditional processed cheese market share in developed countries.
2022
Sustainability concerns in dairy production
Growing consumer and regulatory focus on sustainable practices is pushing producers to adopt eco-friendly packaging and reduce carbon footprints.
2020-2022
The European Union signed a new trade agreement with several Asian countries, reducing tariffs on processed cheese exports, including products under HS 0406.30.83.
March 2023
Expected to boost EU exports by 10-15% in the next two years, particularly benefiting Germany and France.
The United States revised its tariff rate quotas for dairy products, imposing stricter limits on processed cheese imports from non-USMCA countries.
January 2023
Likely to reduce import competition for domestic producers but may increase prices for consumers.
Japan introduced stricter sanitary and phytosanitary regulations for imported dairy products, requiring additional certifications for processed cheese.
October 2022
Temporary disruptions in supply chains for exporters not yet compliant, potentially increasing costs.