Global Cheese Trade Data: Top Cheese Importer-Exporter Statistics in 2024-25

In the arena of global trade, one commodity that has constantly held a unique area is cheese. Whether it's the wealthy and creamy French brie or the pointy and tangy cheddar from England, cheese is a staple in cuisines around the globe. In 2024, the worldwide cheese industry is experiencing considerable shifts in import and export patterns. The HS Code for Cheese is 0406. The international cheese market in 2024 stood at $163.81 billion and its market is expected to reach $213.72 billion by 2032, growing at a fee of 3% annually from 2024 to 2032. As we flow similarly, let's take a closer look at the cheese import-export trade statistics for 2024, the pinnacle of the top 10 cheese importers, exporters, and producers, and what the future holds for this cherished dairy product.

Cheese Imports by Country: Who are the Top 10 Cheese-Importing Countries in 2024?

The total value of cheese imported in 2024 is around $45 billion, as per the data on cheese importing countries. Germany emerged as the largest cheese importer in 2024 with a value of $6 billion. The top 10 cheese importers or the best cheese importing countries in 2024-25, as per the Cheese Imports List and Cheese-Importer data, include:

1. Germany: $6 billion (13.2%)

Germany tops the list as the largest importer of cheese, with a total expenditure of $6 billion, accounting for 13.2% of all cheese imports globally. The country is known for its love of cheese, with a wide variety of cheeses imported from all over the world.

2. France: $3.2 billion (7%)

France, known for its rich culinary culture, comes in second place with cheese imports totaling $3.2 billion, making up 7% of the world's cheese imports. French cheeses are famous for their quality and variety, making them highly sought after by cheese lovers worldwide.

3. Italy: $3 billion (6.7%)

Italy follows closely behind France, with cheese imports amounting to $3 billion, constituting 6.7% of global cheese imports. Italian cheeses such as Parmigiano-Reggiano, mozzarella, and gorgonzola are popular choices among consumers around the globe.

4. United Kingdom: $2.7 billion (5.9%)

The United Kingdom ranks fourth on the list of top cheese-importing countries, with imports totaling $2.7 billion, making up 5.9% of the world's cheese imports. The UK is known for its cheddar cheese, which is exported to many countries worldwide.

5. Belgium: $2.24 billion (5%)

Belgium is the fifth largest importer of cheese, with a total expenditure of $2.24 billion, accounting for 5% of global cheese imports. Belgian cheeses, such as Gouda and Limburger, are highly regarded for their unique flavors.

6. Netherlands: $2.23 billion (5%)

The Netherlands comes in sixth place with cheese imports amounting to $2.23 billion, making up 5% of all cheese imports globally. Dutch cheeses like Edam and Gouda are well-known for their exceptional taste and quality.

7. Spain: $2.01 billion (4.5%)

Spain ranks seventh on the list of top cheese-importing countries, with imports totaling $2.01 billion, constituting 4.5% of the world's cheese imports. Spanish cheeses, such as manchego and cabrales, are popular choices among cheese enthusiasts.

8. United States: $2 billion (4.4%)

The United States is the eighth largest importer of cheese, with a total expenditure of $2 billion, accounting for 4.4% of global cheese imports. The US is known for its diverse range of cheeses, including cheddar, Swiss, and pepper jack.

9. Japan: $1.3 billion (2.9%)

Japan ranks ninth on the list of top cheese-importing countries, with cheese imports amounting to $1.3 billion, making up 2.9% of all cheese imports globally. Japanese consumers have a growing appetite for cheese, leading to an increase in imports in recent years.

10. Mexico: $1.1 billion (2.5%)

Mexico rounds out the list as the tenth largest importer of cheese, with imports totaling $1.1 billion, accounting for 2.5% of the world's cheese imports. Mexican cuisine incorporates cheese in many dishes, driving up the demand for imported cheeses.

Cheese Exports by Country: Who are the Top 10 Cheese Exporting Countries in 2024?

The worldwide cheese exports in 2024 accounted for $45.14 billion. Germany is the biggest cheese exporter, with cheese exports accounting for $6.7 billion in 2024. The top 10 cheese exporters in 2024-25, as per the top cheese exporting countries data and Cheese-Exporter list, include:

1. Germany: $6.7 billion (15%)

Germany has long been known for its high-quality cheeses, and it comes as no surprise that it tops the list of cheese-exporting countries. With a total cheese export value of $6.7 billion, Germany holds a 15% share of the global cheese market.

2. Italy: $5.8 billion (13%)

Italy, famous for its delicious Parmesan and Mozzarella cheeses, comes in second place with cheese exports totaling $5.8 billion. Italian cheeses are highly sought after around the world for their superior taste and quality.

3. Netherlands: $5.8 billion (12.8%)

The Netherlands is another major player in the global cheese market, exporting cheeses worth $5.8 billion. Dutch cheeses like Gouda and Edam are popular choices among cheese lovers worldwide.

4. France: $4.3 billion (9.5%)

France, known for its rich culinary traditions, is a key player in the cheese industry with exports totaling $4.3 billion. French cheeses like Brie and Roquefort are renowned for their exquisite flavors.

5. United States: $2.5 billion (5.5%)

The United States is also a significant cheese exporter, with cheese exports worth $2.5 billion. American cheeses, ranging from cheddar to blue cheese, are enjoyed by consumers both domestically and internationally.

6. Denmark: $2.3 billion (5.1%)

Denmark is known for its high-quality dairy products, including a variety of delicious cheeses. With cheese exports totaling $2.3 billion, Denmark holds a significant share of the global cheese market.

7. Belgium: $1.69 billion (3.8%)

Belgium may be a small country, but it has a big presence in the cheese industry with exports worth $1.69 billion. Belgian cheeses like Brugge and Limburger are highly regarded for their unique flavors.

8. New Zealand: $1.66 billion (3.7%)

New Zealand is a major player in the global dairy industry, and its cheeses are no exception. With cheese exports totaling $1.66 billion, New Zealand offers a variety of high-quality cheeses to the world.

9. Ireland: $1.57 billion (3.5%)

Ireland may be best known for its dairy products, and its cheese exports reflect that reputation. With a total export value of $1.57 billion, Irish cheeses like Dubliner and Cashel Blue are popular choices among consumers.

10. Poland: $1.3 billion (2.9%)

Rounding out the top 10 cheese-exporting countries is Poland, with cheese exports totaling $1.3 billion. Polish cheeses like Oscypek and Twaróg are gaining popularity in international markets for their unique flavors.

What are the top 10 Consumers of Cheese in 2024?

The top 10 cheese-consuming regions in 2024 include:

1. EU: 9.2 million metric tons
2. USA: 6.1 million metric tons
3. Russia: 1.4 million metric tons
4. Brazil: 808 thousand metric tons
5. United Kingdom: 780 thousand metric tons
6. Mexico: 633 thousand metric tons
7. Canada: 566 thousand metric tons
8. Argentina: 440 thousand metric tons
9. Australia: 365 thousand metric tons
10. Japan: 297 thousand metric tons

What are the Top 10 Cheese-Producing Nations in 2024?

In 2024, around 22.15 million metric tons of cheese were produced, with an increase of 0.74% from the preceding 12 months. There has been a small increase in cheese production. Approximately 50% of the cheese produced in 2024 comes from the European Union. Germany became the pinnacle producer of cheese within the EU-28, with almost 2.25 million metric tons produced. In 2024, the United States ranked as the top producer of cheese outdoors in the EU-28. The pinnacle 10 cheese producers in 2024 consist of:

1. European Union: 47% (10.39 million metric tons)
2. United States: 29% (6.4 million metric tons)
3. Russia: 5% (1.1 million metric tons)
4. Brazil: 3% (770,000 metric tons)
5. Canada: 2% (522,000 metric tons)
6. Argentina: 2% (520,000 metric tons)
7. United Kingdom: 2% (520,000 metric tons)
8. Mexico: 2% (465,000 metric tons)
9. Australia: 2% (425,000 metric tons)
10. New Zealand: 2% (400,000 metric tons)

What are the top 10 Cheese Exporting Companies in 2024?

 The top 10 Cheese Exporting Companies, along with their annual export revenue in 2024-25, include:

1. Nestlé (Switzerland): $115.22 billion

2. Unilever (Netherlands/United Kingdom): $76.45 billion

3. Danone (France): $31.34 billion

4. Fonterra (New Zealand): $15.27 billion

5. Arla Foods (Denmark): $15.02 billion

6. Mengniu Dairy (China): $14.18 billion

7. Dairy Farmers of America (United States): $13.92 billion

8. Meiji Dairies (Japan): $13.44 billion

9. Saputo (Canada): $7.95 billion

10. DMK Deutsches Milchkontor GmbH (Germany): $6.21 billion

How to find potential cheese buyers and suppliers online?

Finding quality cheese buyers and suppliers can be a tedious and challenging process. TradeImeX helps you to find thousands of potential cheese buyers and suppliers worldwide at the best prices online. TradeImeX is a leading platform that specializes in connecting businesses in various industries, including the cheese market. With this platform, businesses can easily find new partners, negotiate deals, and expand their network on a global scale. Here is how you can find cheese buyers and suppliers with TradeImeX:

1. Finding Potential Cheese Buyers

One of the key features of TradeImeX is its ability to help businesses find potential cheese buyers quickly and efficiently. By using the platform's advanced search filters, businesses can narrow down their search based on specific criteria.

2. Connecting with Suppliers

In addition to helping businesses find buyers, TradeImeX also makes it easy to connect with cheese suppliers from around the world. By listing their products, suppliers can attract new customers and expand their reach.

3. Negotiating the Best Prices

One of the biggest advantages of using TradeImeX is the ability to negotiate the best prices for cheese products. The platform allows businesses to compare prices from multiple suppliers and choose the one that offers the best deal.

4. Building Relationships

TradeImeX is not just a platform for buying and selling cheese products; it's also a place where businesses can build relationships. By engaging with other members on the platform, businesses can establish trust and foster collaboration.

Conclusion

To conclude, the cheese importers and exporters statistics of 2024 paint a promising picture for the destiny of this beloved dairy product. With enduring growth in each import and export market, cheese is ready to remain a key player within the international exchange panorama. Germany, France, and Italy remain the pinnacle cheese importers, even as Germany, the Netherlands, and Italy emerged as the most important cheese exporters in 2024. As customer choices evolve and technology advances, we can assume that new traits and possibilities emerge, shaping the cheese trade enterprise in the years to come. So, whether or not you're a cheese lover, a cheese manufacturer, or a distributor, keep a watch on today's cheese trade developments.