Top 10 Dairy Importing Countries by Volume and Category in 2025
Introduction
In 2025, the global dairy industry continues to thrive, with an increasing demand for dairy products worldwide. This report will delve into the top 10 dairy importing countries by volume and category, providing insights into the trends and financial data shaping the industry.
1. China
China remains one of the largest importers of dairy products in the world, with a focus on categories such as milk powder, cheese, and butter. The country’s growing middle class and changing dietary habits have led to a surge in dairy consumption. In 2025, China is expected to import over 10 million metric tons of dairy products, making it a key player in the global dairy market.
2. United States
The United States is another major importer of dairy products, particularly cheese and butter. Despite being a leading producer of dairy, the US still relies on imports to meet domestic demand. In 2025, the country is projected to import over 5 million metric tons of dairy products, highlighting the importance of international trade in the dairy industry.
3. Russia
Russia has emerged as a significant player in the global dairy market, with a focus on categories such as milk and cheese. The country’s dairy industry has been growing steadily, driven by increasing consumer demand and government support. In 2025, Russia is expected to import over 3 million metric tons of dairy products, solidifying its position as a key dairy importing country.
4. Japan
Japan is known for its high standards when it comes to dairy products, particularly milk and yogurt. The country heavily relies on imports to meet its dairy needs due to limited domestic production. In 2025, Japan is projected to import over 2.5 million metric tons of dairy products, highlighting the country’s strong demand for quality dairy products.
5. Germany
Germany is a major importer of dairy products, with a focus on categories such as cheese, yogurt, and milk. The country’s strong economy and high consumer demand have contributed to its significant dairy imports. In 2025, Germany is expected to import over 2 million metric tons of dairy products, showcasing its importance in the global dairy market.
6. United Kingdom
The United Kingdom has a long history of dairy consumption, with categories such as cheese and butter being popular among consumers. Despite being a producer of dairy, the UK still relies on imports to meet demand. In 2025, the country is projected to import over 1.5 million metric tons of dairy products, reflecting the UK’s position as a key dairy importing country.
7. Mexico
Mexico is a significant importer of dairy products, with categories such as milk and cheese being in high demand. The country’s growing population and changing dietary habits have led to an increase in dairy consumption. In 2025, Mexico is expected to import over 1 million metric tons of dairy products, highlighting its importance in the global dairy market.
8. France
France is renowned for its dairy products, particularly cheese and yogurt. Despite being a major producer of dairy, the country still imports certain products to meet consumer demand. In 2025, France is projected to import over 1 million metric tons of dairy products, showcasing its strong presence in the global dairy market.
9. Italy
Italy is known for its high-quality dairy products, with categories such as cheese and milk being popular among consumers. The country’s rich culinary tradition has led to a strong demand for dairy products. In 2025, Italy is expected to import over 800,000 metric tons of dairy products, highlighting its significance in the global dairy industry.
10. Netherlands
The Netherlands is a key player in the global dairy market, with categories such as cheese and butter being major imports. The country’s efficient dairy industry and strong export capabilities have made it a prominent dairy importing country. In 2025, the Netherlands is projected to import over 700,000 metric tons of dairy products, solidifying its position in the global dairy industry.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the top 10 dairy importing countries by volume and category in 2025 play a crucial role in shaping the global dairy industry. These countries’ consumption patterns, economic factors, and consumer preferences all contribute to the demand for dairy products on the international market. As the dairy industry continues to evolve, it is essential for dairy importing countries to adapt to changing trends and technologies to meet the growing demand for dairy products worldwide.