Top 10 Dairy Importing Countries

1. China

• Import Value: Over $14 billion (2023)
• Why It Stands Out: China is the largest dairy importer globally, driven by a rising middle class and growing demand for infant formula, milk powder, and cheese.
• Key Insights: New Zealand and the EU dominate the supply chain, benefiting from trade agreements and China’s preference for premium dairy products.

2. United States

• Import Value: Approximately $10 billion (2023)
• Why It Stands Out: Despite its robust domestic production, the U.S. imports significant volumes of specialty cheeses and premium butter.
• Key Insights: Key suppliers include France, Italy, and Ireland, reflecting consumer demand for high-quality, artisanal products.

3. Germany

• Import Value: Around $9 billion (2023)
• Why It Stands Out: Germany, a dairy-exporting powerhouse, also imports large volumes of cheese and butter for its processed food industry.
• Key Insights: Netherlands and France are key suppliers, meeting Germany’s demand for high-quality dairy ingredients.

4. Japan

• Import Value: Over $8.5 billion (2023)
• Why It Stands Out: Japan’s dairy imports focus on cheese and milk powder, catering to its aging population and health-conscious consumers.
• Key Insights: Australia and New Zealand are top suppliers, leveraging proximity and quality.

5. United Kingdom

• Import Value: Around $8 billion (2023)
• Why It Stands Out: The UK’s reliance on dairy imports has grown post-Brexit, with cheese and butter leading the demand.
• Key Insights: Ireland remains the largest supplier, complemented by imports from France and Germany.

6. Italy

• Import Value: Over $7 billion (2023)
• Why It Stands Out: Italy’s imports support its thriving processed food and gourmet sectors, with a focus on high-quality butter and specialty cheeses.
• Key Insights: Germany and France dominate Italy’s supply chain, focusing on premium and organic products.

7. Mexico

• Import Value: Approximately $6.5 billion (2023)
• Why It Stands Out: Mexico’s growing urban population and thriving foodservice sector drive demand for milk powder and processed cheese.
• Key Insights: The U.S. is Mexico’s primary supplier, benefiting from geographic proximity and trade agreements.

8. South Korea

• Import Value: Around $6 billion (2023)
• Why It Stands Out: South Korea’s demand for cheese and milk powder is driven by Western dietary influences and a growing bakery sector.
• Key Insights: Key suppliers include New Zealand, the U.S., and Australia, emphasizing high-quality standards.

9. Saudi Arabia

• Import Value: Over $5 billion (2023)
• Why It Stands Out: Saudi Arabia’s dependence on imports stems from its limited domestic dairy production and growing demand for milk powder and butter.
• Key Insights: The EU and New Zealand are leading suppliers, addressing both consumer and industrial needs.

10. France

• Import Value: Approximately $4.8 billion (2023)
• Why It Stands Out: France imports specialized dairy ingredients for its processed food and confectionery industries.
• Key Insights: Imports are sourced primarily from Germany, the Netherlands, and Italy.

Key Trends in Dairy Imports

1. Rising Demand for Specialty Products:
   Premium cheeses, organic butter, and lactose-free options are gaining popularity in developed markets.
2. Growing Infant Formula Sector:
   Demand for infant formula is a key driver in Asian markets, particularly in China.
3. Health and Wellness Focus:
   Dairy products with added probiotics, calcium, and protein are increasingly sought after.
4. Shift Towards Sustainable Sourcing:
   Importers prioritize suppliers adhering to animal welfare and environmental standards.
5. Digital Transformation in Trade:
   Online platforms are facilitating direct connections between producers and importers.
6. Expansion in Emerging Markets:
   Rising disposable incomes and Western dietary influences are boosting demand in regions like Southeast Asia and the Middle East.