Cheese is not just a culinary delight—it’s also a booming global commodity. With demand for specialty cheeses rising in both developed and emerging markets, the international cheese trade is more active than ever. Whether it’s French Brie, Dutch Gouda, or American Cheddar, cheese connects cultures and economies across continents.
In this post, Export Genius reveals the top countries leading the world in cheese exports and imports with crucial global trade data on cheese, and what makes them key players in this deliciously dynamic industry.
Top Cheese Importing Countries
- Italy
Italy imports cheese for industrial use and niche market needs, including varieties not produced domestically. Swiss cheeses like Emmental and Raclette are popular imports.
| Year | Value USD Million |
| 2020 | 700 |
| 2021 | 766 |
| 2022 | 994 |
| 2023 | 1,093 |
| 2024 | 1,189 |
2. France
France imports cheese largely to support its processed and foodservice sectors. It also brings in cheeses not made domestically or those that suit industrial applications.
| Year | Value USD Million |
| 2020 | 565 |
| 2021 | 649 |
| 2022 | 732 |
| 2023 | 860 |
| 2024 | 893 |
3. United Kingdom
The UK is a major cheese importer, especially of continental varieties. Despite a strong domestic industry, UK consumers crave European cheeses like Brie, Camembert, and Mozzarella—though Brexit has added complexity to EU imports.
| Year | Value USD Million |
| 2020 | 550 |
| 2021 | 561 |
| 2022 | 697 |
| 2023 | 770 |
| 2024 | 872 |
4. Germany
Interestingly, Germany is also one of the top importers of cheese. Despite its large domestic production, Germany imports high-end specialty cheeses from France, Italy, and the Netherlands to satisfy diverse consumer tastes.
| Year | Value USD Million |
| 2020 | 561 |
| 2021 | 619 |
| 2022 | 691 |
| 2023 | 774 |
| 2024 | 839 |
5. Spain
Demand is driven primarily by non-specific cheeses and fresh/unripened varieties, and import values have steadily increased over the last decade.
| Year | Value USD Million |
| 2020 | 295 |
| 2021 | 356 |
| 2022 | 509 |
| 2023 | 527 |
| 2024 | 624 |
Top Cheese Exporting Countries
- Germany
Germany stands as the world’s top cheese exporter by volume. Known more for its efficiency than its fromage, Germany produces a variety of cheeses—such as Butterkäse, Tilsit, and Allgäuer Emmentaler—that are popular across Europe. Its central location and robust dairy infrastructure make it a major distribution hub.
| Year | Value USD Million |
| 2020 | 1,728 |
| 2021 | 1,924 |
| 2022 | 2,328 |
| 2023 | 2,453 |
| 2024 | 2,562 |
2. Italy
Italy is synonymous with cheese classics like Parmigiano Reggiano, Mozzarella, and Gorgonzola. With growing demand for authentic Italian products, cheese exports have soared in recent years, especially to North America and Asia.
| Year | Value USD Million |
| 2020 | 1,104 |
| 2021 | 1,359 |
| 2022 | 1,591 |
| 2023 | 1,867 |
| 2024 | 2,051 |
3. Denmark
Denmark’s cheese export growth is driven by strong demand for fresh and specialty cheeses, supported by rising value even when volume growth remains moderate.
| Year | Value USD Million |
| 2020 | 597 |
| 2021 | 663 |
| 2022 | 819 |
| 2023 | 925 |
| 2024 | 1,068 |
4. France
Renowned globally for its rich cheese heritage (over 1,000 varieties!), France exports high-end cheeses like Camembert, Brie, and Roquefort. While much of its production is consumed domestically, France remains one of the top five cheese exporters.
| Year | Value USD Million |
| 2020 | 561 |
| 2021 | 597 |
| 2022 | 560 |
| 2023 | 627 |
| 2024 | 672 |
5. Belgium
Belgium’s cheese export strength lies in its diversified product portfolio and its robust demand from neighboring European markets.
| Year | Value USD Million |
| 2020 | 315 |
| 2021 | 430 |
| 2022 | 550 |
| 2023 | 603 |
| 2024 | 663 |
Bottom Line
The global cheese market is a dynamic network shaped by tradition, innovation, and shifting consumer preferences. Leading exporters like Germany, the Netherlands, and France continue to set the pace with both volume and variety, while major importers such as the UK, Japan, and Germany reflect the growing worldwide appetite for diverse cheese products. As trade policies, technology, and tastes evolve, staying informed on these key players helps businesses and consumers alike navigate the ever-changing landscape of the international cheese trade.
FAQs
1. Who are the top cheese-exporting countries in the world?
As of 2024, the top cheese exporters globally are:
Germany
France
Italy
Denmark
These countries dominate global exports due to their high production, strong dairy sectors, and historic cheese-making traditions.
2. Which countries import the most cheese?
The largest cheese-importing countries are:
Germany
Italy
France
United States
Spain
Many of these are also exporters but import large volumes to meet domestic and industrial demand for cheese variety and volume.
3. What types of cheese are most traded internationally?
The most commonly traded cheese categories include:
Fresh (unripened) cheese – e.g., mozzarella, cream cheese
Grated or powdered cheese – especially Parmesan-type
Processed cheese – used in food service
“Cheese, nes” (not elsewhere specified) – often includes semi-soft and specialty cheeses
4. Why does Denmark play such a big role in cheese exports?
Denmark specializes in high-quality, branded cheeses like Havarti and Danablu (Danish Blue), many of which hold Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status. Denmark exports to over 120 countries and benefits from efficient dairy production and strong food safety standards.
