Global Trade and Export Trends for Yogurt and Cultured Dairy Products

User avatar placeholder
Written by Robert Gultig

23 March 2025

Global Trade and Export Trends for Yogurt and Cultured Dairy Products

Overview of the Yogurt and Cultured Dairy Products Industry

The global market for yogurt and cultured dairy products has been experiencing steady growth in recent years. Consumers are increasingly seeking healthier food options, driving demand for probiotic-rich products like yogurt. This trend is expected to continue as people become more health-conscious and aware of the benefits of consuming probiotics.
According to a report by Grand View Research, the global yogurt market size was valued at $88.5 billion in 2020 and is projected to reach $115.2 billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 3.8% during the forecast period. This growth can be attributed to the rising popularity of yogurt as a convenient and nutritious snack option.

Key Players in the Yogurt and Cultured Dairy Products Industry

Some of the leading companies in the global yogurt and cultured dairy products market include Danone, Nestle, Chobani, Yoplait, and FAGE. These companies have a strong presence in various regions around the world and offer a wide range of yogurt products to cater to different consumer preferences.
Danone, for example, is a multinational food company based in France that is known for its wide range of dairy products, including yogurt. The company has a strong global presence and is committed to sustainability and innovation in its product offerings.
Chobani, on the other hand, is a Greek yogurt company based in the United States that has gained popularity for its high-protein and low-sugar yogurt products. The company has expanded its product line to include various flavors and formulations to meet the diverse needs of consumers.

Global Trade and Export Trends

The global trade of yogurt and cultured dairy products has been on the rise in recent years, driven by increasing consumer demand and changing dietary preferences. Countries like the United States, France, Germany, and Greece are among the top exporters of yogurt and cultured dairy products.
According to data from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the global exports of yogurt and other fermented milk products reached $8.6 billion in 2019, with the United States accounting for a significant portion of the export volume. The demand for Greek yogurt, in particular, has been driving the export growth in countries like Greece and the United States.

Challenges and Opportunities in Global Trade

While the global trade of yogurt and cultured dairy products presents lucrative opportunities for companies in the industry, there are also challenges that need to be addressed. One of the main challenges is the perishable nature of dairy products, which can make transportation and storage more complex and costly.
Additionally, trade barriers and regulations in different countries can pose challenges for exporters looking to enter new markets. Companies need to be aware of these regulations and work closely with regulatory bodies to ensure compliance and smooth trade operations.
Despite these challenges, there are also opportunities for growth in the global trade of yogurt and cultured dairy products. Emerging markets in Asia and Latin America present untapped potential for exporters looking to expand their reach and capitalize on the growing demand for dairy products in these regions.

Future Outlook

Looking ahead, the global market for yogurt and cultured dairy products is expected to continue its growth trajectory, driven by factors such as increasing health consciousness among consumers and the rising popularity of probiotic-rich foods. Companies in the industry will need to adapt to changing consumer preferences and market dynamics to stay competitive and capitalize on emerging opportunities in the global trade landscape.

Related Analysis: View Previous Industry Report

Author: Robert Gultig in conjunction with ESS Research Team

Robert Gultig is a veteran Managing Director and International Trade Consultant with over 20 years of experience in global trading and market research. Robert leverages his deep industry knowledge and strategic marketing background (BBA) to provide authoritative market insights in conjunction with the ESS Research Team. If you would like to contribute articles or insights, please join our team by emailing support@essfeed.com.
View Robert’s LinkedIn Profile →