HS Code 0406
Cheese and Curd
HS code 0406 covers all varieties of cheese and curd, including fresh, processed, blue-veined, and grated formats for retail or industrial use.
4-digit Section IReefer
HS Code 0406 — Cheese and Curd
This code includes all types of cheese: fresh (unripened), grated, powdered, processed, blue-veined, and other hard or soft cheeses. It also covers curd, the solid part of milk used as a base for cheese making.
What's included
- Fresh cheese (Mozzarella, Ricotta)
- Grated or powdered cheese
- Processed cheese (slices/spreads)
- Blue-veined cheese (Roquefort, Stilton)
- Cheddar and Gouda
What's excluded
- Cheese analogues (Vegan cheese) → use
2106(Non-dairy cheese substitutes are food preparations.)
Common examples
- Parmesan cheese wheels
- Processed cheese slices
- Gorgonzola blue cheese
- Fresh cottage cheese
Frequently asked questions
Is cottage cheese in this code?
Yes, cottage cheese and other fresh unripened cheeses are classified under sub-heading 0406.10.
Trade & shipping notes
- Typical duty range: 10% - 40% (or specific duty by weight)
- Documentation: Veterinary inspection and health certificates mandatory. EU protected designations (PDO) may apply.
- Typical shipping mode: Reefer
- Top exporters: Germany, Netherlands, France, Italy
- Top importers: United Kingdom, Germany, Japan, USA
Related HS codes
Key takeaway
Highly regulated and protected commodity; precise cheese type determines the sub-heading and duty.
Related HS codes
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