Introduction
In the global cheese market, ambient cheese is a popular category that includes cheeses that do not require refrigeration for storage. These cheeses are often vacuum-sealed or aged in a way that allows them to be stored at room temperature without spoiling.
Importing ambient cheese has become a common practice for many countries around the world, as consumers seek out new and unique cheese varieties from different regions. In this report, we will explore the top 10 ambient cheese importing countries in the world in 2025, highlighting key industry insights, financial data, and actual companies involved in the trade.
1. United States
Industry Insights:
The United States is one of the largest importers of ambient cheese in the world, with a strong demand for a variety of cheese types from different countries. The market for ambient cheese in the US is driven by the growing popularity of cheese-based snacks and the increasing interest in gourmet and specialty cheeses.
Financial Data:
In 2025, the United States imported over $2 billion worth of ambient cheese, with key suppliers including Italy, France, and the Netherlands. The market is expected to continue growing as consumers seek out new and unique cheese options.
2. Germany
Industry Insights:
Germany is another major player in the ambient cheese importing market, with a strong preference for high-quality cheeses from European countries. The German market is known for its diverse range of cheese varieties and the popularity of cheese as a snack or ingredient in cooking.
Financial Data:
Germany imported over $1.5 billion worth of ambient cheese in 2025, with key suppliers including France, Italy, and Switzerland. The market is expected to see steady growth in the coming years as the demand for specialty cheeses continues to rise.
3. France
Industry Insights:
France is renowned for its cheese production and consumption, making it a significant player in the global ambient cheese importing market. French consumers have a strong appreciation for traditional and artisanal cheeses, driving demand for imports from other countries.
Financial Data:
In 2025, France imported over $1.2 billion worth of ambient cheese, with key suppliers including Switzerland, Italy, and Spain. The market is expected to remain strong as the French continue to embrace a wide variety of cheese options.
4. United Kingdom
Industry Insights:
The United Kingdom has a growing market for ambient cheese, with consumers increasingly interested in trying new and unique cheese varieties from around the world. The UK market is known for its strong demand for specialty cheeses and cheese-based snacks.
Financial Data:
In 2025, the United Kingdom imported over $1 billion worth of ambient cheese, with key suppliers including Italy, France, and the Netherlands. The market is expected to see continued growth as consumers seek out innovative cheese options.
5. Italy
Industry Insights:
Italy is a major player in the global cheese market, with a strong tradition of cheese production and consumption. Italian consumers have a deep appreciation for cheese, driving demand for a wide variety of cheese types from different countries.
Financial Data:
In 2025, Italy imported over $900 million worth of ambient cheese, with key suppliers including France, Switzerland, and the United States. The market is expected to see steady growth as Italians continue to explore new cheese options.
6. Canada
Industry Insights:
Canada has a growing market for ambient cheese, with consumers increasingly interested in trying new and unique cheese varieties from different regions. The Canadian market is known for its diverse range of cheese options and the popularity of cheese as a snack or ingredient in cooking.
Financial Data:
In 2025, Canada imported over $800 million worth of ambient cheese, with key suppliers including the United States, Italy, and France. The market is expected to continue growing as Canadians seek out innovative cheese options.
7. Netherlands
Industry Insights:
The Netherlands is a key player in the ambient cheese importing market, with a strong demand for high-quality cheeses from different countries. The Dutch market is known for its diverse range of cheese varieties and the popularity of cheese as a versatile ingredient in cooking.
Financial Data:
In 2025, the Netherlands imported over $700 million worth of ambient cheese, with key suppliers including France, Italy, and Germany. The market is expected to see steady growth as the Dutch continue to explore new cheese options.
8. Japan
Industry Insights:
Japan has a growing market for ambient cheese, with consumers increasingly interested in trying new and unique cheese varieties from different countries. The Japanese market is known for its strong demand for high-quality cheeses and the popularity of cheese as a snack or ingredient in cooking.
Financial Data:
In 2025, Japan imported over $600 million worth of ambient cheese, with key suppliers including France, Italy, and the United States. The market is expected to see continued growth as Japanese consumers seek out innovative cheese options.
9. Spain
Industry Insights:
Spain is a significant player in the global cheese market, with a strong tradition of cheese production and consumption. Spanish consumers have a deep appreciation for traditional and artisanal cheeses, driving demand for imports from other countries.
Financial Data:
In 2025, Spain imported over $500 million worth of ambient cheese, with key suppliers including France, Italy, and Portugal. The market is expected to remain strong as the Spanish continue to embrace a wide variety of cheese options.
10. Australia
Industry Insights:
Australia has a growing market for ambient cheese, with consumers increasingly interested in trying new and unique cheese varieties from different regions. The Australian market is known for its diverse range of cheese options and the popularity of cheese as a snack or ingredient in cooking.
Financial Data:
In 2025, Australia imported over $400 million worth of ambient cheese, with key suppliers including the United States, Italy, and France. The market is expected to continue growing as Australians seek out innovative cheese options.
In conclusion, the global market for ambient cheese importing is a dynamic and growing industry, with key players from around the world driving demand for unique cheese varieties. As consumer preferences continue to evolve, we can expect to see further growth and innovation in the ambient cheese market in the coming years.
