HS Code:
Subheading 0406.90.48 of the Harmonized System (HS) Code refers to 'Other cheese' not elsewhere specified or included, subject to quantitative limits as specified in U.S. note 15 to this subchapter. This category generally includes specialty or less common cheeses that do not fall under other specific cheese classifications. These products are often subject to import quotas and specific tariff-rate quotas (TRQs) under U.S. trade agreements, reflecting efforts to balance domestic dairy industry protection with international trade commitments.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately 45,000 metric tons
Data from 2022
Source
U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) and World Trade Organization (WTO) data
12,000 metric tons
26.7% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
10,500 metric tons
23.3% of total trade of total trade
Stable
8,000 metric tons
17.8% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
5,500 metric tons
12.2% of total trade of total trade
Stable
4,000 metric tons
8.9% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
12.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
35% ad valorem (outside quota limits)
Lowest Rate
0% (under specific trade agreements like USMCA)
Rising demand for specialty cheeses
Increased imports of artisanal and niche cheeses from Europe to meet consumer preferences in the U.S. market
2021-2022
Impact of trade agreements
Adjustments in quota allocations under agreements like the USMCA have facilitated higher imports from certain countries while maintaining restrictions on others
2020-2022
Sustainability and organic certification
Growing consumer interest in organic and sustainably produced cheeses has led to a slight shift in sourcing patterns towards certified producers
2022
The U.S. Trade Representative announced revised tariff-rate quota allocations for cheese imports under HS 0406.90.48, with increased quotas for EU countries as part of ongoing trade negotiations.
January 2023
Expected to boost imports from Italy and France by 5-10% in 2023, potentially affecting domestic producers.
Negotiations between the EU and U.S. have focused on resolving disputes over dairy quotas, including cheeses under this subheading, to avoid retaliatory tariffs.
October 2022
Could lead to more stable trade patterns and reduced tariff barriers if an agreement is reached.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration introduced stricter guidelines for imported cheeses to ensure compliance with safety and labeling standards.
March 2022
Some smaller exporters may face delays or increased costs to meet these requirements, potentially reducing import volumes temporarily.