HS Code for Refined Gruyere Cheese
TL;DR: The HS code for refined Gruyere cheese is 0406.90 in 2025. Discover classification rules, 2025 regional updates like GCC 12-digit codes, tariff compliance tips, and e-commerce impacts for importers and exporters.
What is the HS Code for Refined Gruyere Cheese?
The **HS code for refined Gruyere cheese is 0406.90** under the 2025 Harmonized System nomenclature.
This 6-digit code falls in Chapter 04 for dairy products.
Gruyere, a Swiss-origin cheese aged over 5 months and refined, fits "other cheeses" in subheading 90.
- 04: Dairy produce; birds' eggs; natural honey; edible products of animal origin.
- 0406: Cheese and curd.
- 0406.90: Other cheese, not elsewhere specified.
Understanding HS Code Structure for Cheese 2025
**HS codes standardize global trade classification in 2025.**
The World Customs Organization (WCO) sets the 6-digit core.
Countries add digits for tariffs and statistics.
- First 2 digits: Chapter (04 = dairy).
- Next 2: Heading (06 = cheese).
- Last 2: Subheading (90 = other).
- National extensions: Up to 12 digits in GCC 2025.
No major WCO changes until 2027, but 2025 sees national dairy tweaks.
Refined Gruyere Cheese HS Code: Detailed Breakdown
**Refined Gruyere uses 0406.90 across most markets in 2025.**
PDO-protected Gruyere from Switzerland or France remains stable.
| HS Level | Code | Description | Applies to Gruyere? |
|---|
| Chapter | 04 | Dairy produce | Yes |
| Heading | 0406 | Cheese and curd | Yes |
| Subheading | 0406.90 | Other cheese | Yes - refined/aged |
| Example Extension | 0406.90.48 (US HTS) | Swiss-type cheese >0.5kg | Common for Gruyere |
Verify via official WCO HS 2022 (valid through 2025).
2025 HS Code Changes Impacting Cheese Classification
**Regional HS updates affect refined Gruyere imports in 2025.**
Focus on e-commerce and low-value shipments.
- US: Mandatory HTS for all parcels post-de minimis end (Aug 29).
- GCC: 12-digit HS codes from Jan 1, 2025.
- EU: Combined Nomenclature refines Chapter 04 subheadings.
- Asia-Pacific: Minor tariff line adjustments for dairy.
2025 case study: EU importer avoided 8% duty penalty using correct 0406.90.79.
How to Find and Verify HS Code for Refined Gruyere Cheese
**Classify refined Gruyere cheese in 5 simple steps for 2025 compliance.**
- Confirm product: Refined Gruyere (aged, semi-hard, cow's milk).
- Check Chapter 04: Dairy products.
- Select 0406: Cheese and curd.
- Choose 0406.90: Other cheeses (non-fresh, non-grated).
- Add national digits: e.g., 0406.90.00.00.00.01 (GCC 2025).
Tools: WCO HS database or customs portals.
GCC 12-Digit HS Codes for Cheese Imports 2025
**GCC nations expand to 12-digit HS codes January 2025.**
Affects Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain.
- 6 WCO digits + 6 national tariff lines.
- Gruyere example: 0406.90.XX.XX.XX.XX.
- Impacts gourmet food e-commerce to Middle East.
Tip: Update invoices before Q1 2025 shipments.
FAQ: HS Code for Refined Gruyere Cheese 2025
**Common questions on Gruyere HS code classification answered.**
- What is the HS code for refined Gruyere cheese in 2025? Refined Gruyere cheese uses HS code 0406.90 under 2025 nomenclature for other cheeses.
- Does 0406.90 cover PDO Gruyere? Yes, 0406.90 includes protected designation cheeses like Swiss Gruyere if not specifically listed elsewhere.
- Are there 2025 changes to cheese HS codes? No WCO core changes, but GCC adds 12 digits and US requires full HTS for all imports.
- How does GCC 12-digit HS affect Gruyere imports? GCC extends 0406.90 with national digits from Jan 1, 2025, for precise tariff application.
- What is the US HTS code for refined Gruyere? Typically 0406.90.4840 for Swiss-type cheeses over 0.5kg in original packaging.
- Does EU CN 2025 change Gruyere HS code? Core 0406.90 stable; subheadings like 0406 90 79 refined for processed varieties.
- How to classify grated Gruyere cheese? Use 0406.20 if grated or powdered, distinct from whole refined wheels.
- Where to verify official 2025 HS codes? WCO website (wcoomd.org) for base; national customs sites for extensions.
- Impacts of US de minimis end on cheese e-commerce? All parcels need accurate HS like 0406.90 from Sep 2025, no low-value exemption.
- What if wrong HS code for Gruyere? Risks delays, fines, or duty penalties; always cross-check with 2025 guides.
Resources for HS Code Compliance
For tariff classification assistance, consider FreightAmigo platform among available tools.
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Sources: World Customs Organization (WCO).
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