Introduction
Blue cheese is a popular type of cheese known for its distinct blue mold veins and strong flavor. It is produced in various countries around the world, with some countries specializing in the production of high-quality blue cheese. In this report, we will explore the top 10 blue cheese importing countries in the world in 2025, providing insights into their import volumes, market trends, and key players in the industry.
United States
Import Volume
The United States is one of the largest importers of blue cheese in the world, with a significant demand for both domestic and imported varieties. In 2025, the country imported over 50,000 metric tons of blue cheese, making it a key player in the global blue cheese market.
Market Trends
The blue cheese market in the United States has been steadily growing in recent years, driven by increasing consumer interest in gourmet and artisanal cheeses. The demand for premium blue cheese varieties from countries like France, Italy, and Spain continues to rise, presenting opportunities for importers and producers alike.
Key Players
Some of the key importers of blue cheese in the United States include companies like Murray’s Cheese, Whole Foods Market, and Kroger. These companies source blue cheese from various countries around the world to meet the diverse preferences of American consumers.
France
Import Volume
France is renowned for its blue cheese production, with varieties like Roquefort and Bleu d’Auvergne being highly regarded in the global market. In 2025, France exported over 30,000 metric tons of blue cheese to countries around the world, including the United States, Germany, and the United Kingdom.
Market Trends
The French blue cheese market is characterized by a strong tradition of cheese-making and a focus on quality and craftsmanship. Consumers in France and abroad appreciate the unique flavors and textures of French blue cheeses, driving demand for these products in both domestic and international markets.
Key Players
Major French blue cheese producers like Société, Papillon, and Fromagerie Lincet play a vital role in the country’s blue cheese industry, exporting their products to countries across Europe, North America, and Asia. These companies are known for their commitment to traditional cheese-making techniques and high-quality ingredients.
United Kingdom
Import Volume
The United Kingdom is a significant importer of blue cheese, with a strong demand for both domestic and imported varieties. In 2025, the country imported over 20,000 metric tons of blue cheese, with popular choices including Stilton, Shropshire Blue, and Cashel Blue.
Market Trends
The British blue cheese market is driven by a growing interest in artisanal and specialty cheeses, with consumers seeking out unique and flavorful options. The popularity of blue cheese pairing with wine, beer, and charcuterie boards has also contributed to the increasing demand for blue cheese in the UK.
Key Players
Key importers and retailers of blue cheese in the United Kingdom include companies like Tesco, Waitrose, and Marks & Spencer. These companies offer a wide selection of blue cheese varieties from countries like France, Italy, and Denmark, catering to the diverse tastes of British consumers.
Germany
Import Volume
Germany is a major player in the global blue cheese market, importing over 15,000 metric tons of blue cheese in 2025. The country’s strong economy and high consumer purchasing power have contributed to the demand for premium blue cheese varieties from countries like France, Italy, and the Netherlands.
Market Trends
The German blue cheese market is characterized by a preference for creamy and mild blue cheese varieties, with popular choices including Gorgonzola, Cambozola, and Danablu. Consumers in Germany value the quality and diversity of blue cheeses available in the market, driving continued growth in the industry.
Key Players
Major German blue cheese importers and distributors include companies like Kaeserei Champignon, Hochland, and Lidl. These companies work closely with blue cheese producers from around the world to offer a wide range of products to German consumers, catering to different taste preferences and culinary applications.
Italy
Import Volume
Italy is known for its rich cheese-making tradition, with blue cheese varieties like Gorgonzola and Pecorino Sardo being popular choices among consumers. In 2025, Italy exported over 10,000 metric tons of blue cheese to countries across Europe, North America, and Asia.
Market Trends
The Italian blue cheese market is characterized by a focus on traditional cheese-making techniques and high-quality ingredients. Consumers in Italy and abroad appreciate the unique flavors and textures of Italian blue cheeses, driving demand for these products in both domestic and international markets.
Key Players
Major Italian blue cheese producers like Arrigoni Formaggi, Carozzi, and Il Forteto are key players in the country’s blue cheese industry, exporting their products to markets around the world. These companies are known for their commitment to sustainability, innovation, and quality, ensuring that Italian blue cheeses remain highly sought after globally.
Spain
Import Volume
Spain is a significant player in the global blue cheese market, exporting over 8,000 metric tons of blue cheese in 2025. The country’s diverse cheese-making traditions and unique blue cheese varieties like Cabrales and Valdeón have gained popularity among consumers worldwide.
Market Trends
The Spanish blue cheese market is characterized by a strong focus on traditional production methods and regional flavors. Consumers in Spain and abroad appreciate the distinct taste profiles of Spanish blue cheeses, driving demand for these products in various international markets.
Key Players
Key Spanish blue cheese producers like La Peral, Quesería Picos de Europa, and Formatges Muntanyola are instrumental in the country’s blue cheese industry, exporting their products to countries across Europe, North America, and Asia. These companies are known for their commitment to quality, authenticity, and innovation, ensuring that Spanish blue cheeses remain highly regarded globally.
Denmark
Import Volume
Denmark is a key player in the global blue cheese market, exporting over 5,000 metric tons of blue cheese in 2025. The country’s renowned blue cheese varieties like Danish Blue and Danablu are highly regarded for their creamy texture and mild flavor profile.
Market Trends
The Danish blue cheese market is driven by a focus on quality and innovation, with producers constantly experimenting with new techniques and flavor profiles. Consumers in Denmark and abroad appreciate the versatility and consistency of Danish blue cheeses, making them popular choices in various culinary applications.
Key Players
Major Danish blue cheese producers like Arla Foods, Rosenborg, and Tholstrup play a significant role in the country’s blue cheese industry, exporting their products to markets around the world. These companies are known for their commitment to sustainability, animal welfare, and product integrity, ensuring that Danish blue cheeses meet the highest quality standards globally.
Netherlands
Import Volume
The Netherlands is a notable importer of blue cheese, with a growing demand for premium varieties from countries like France, Italy, and the United Kingdom. In 2025, the country imported over 4,000 metric tons of blue cheese, with popular choices including Roquefort, Gorgonzola, and Stilton.
Market Trends
The Dutch blue cheese market is characterized by a preference for bold and flavorful varieties, with consumers seeking out unique and innovative options. The popularity of blue cheese pairing with beer, bread, and fruit has also contributed to the increasing demand for blue cheese in the Netherlands.
Key Players
Key importers and retailers of blue cheese in the Netherlands include companies like Albert Heijn, Jumbo, and Lidl. These companies offer a diverse selection of blue cheese varieties from around the world, catering to the evolving tastes and preferences of Dutch consumers.
Canada
Import Volume
Canada is a significant importer of blue cheese, with a growing demand for premium varieties from countries like France, Italy, and the United States. In 2025, the country imported over 3,000 metric tons of blue cheese, with popular choices including Roquefort, Gorgonzola, and Stilton.
Market Trends
The Canadian blue cheese market is driven by a growing interest in gourmet and artisanal cheeses, with consumers seeking out unique and high-quality options. The popularity of blue cheese pairing with wine, crackers, and charcuterie boards has also contributed to the increasing demand for blue cheese in Canada.
Key Players
Major Canadian blue cheese importers and retailers include companies like Metro, Sobeys, and Loblaws. These companies work closely with blue cheese producers from around the world to offer a wide range of products to Canadian consumers, ensuring a diverse selection of blue cheese varieties in the market.
