Introduction
Cheese is a popular dairy product enjoyed by people all over the world. It is produced in many countries, with some being major players in the cheese industry. In this report, we will explore the top 10 functional cheese producing countries in the world in 2025. We will analyze their production volumes, market share, industry trends, and key companies driving the cheese production in these countries.
1. United States
Production Volume and Market Share
The United States is one of the largest cheese producers in the world. In 2025, the country is expected to produce over 6 million metric tons of cheese, accounting for a significant portion of the global cheese market share.
Industry Insights
The cheese industry in the United States is dominated by major companies such as Kraft Heinz, Sargento Foods, and Tillamook. These companies have a strong presence in the market and play a key role in driving innovation and growth in the industry.
2. Germany
Production Volume and Market Share
Germany is another major player in the global cheese market. The country is expected to produce over 2.5 million metric tons of cheese in 2025, contributing significantly to the overall cheese production worldwide.
Industry Insights
The German cheese industry is known for its high-quality products and diverse range of cheese varieties. Companies such as Hochland, Milchwerke Schwaben, and Bergader Privatkäserei are leading players in the German cheese market.
3. France
Production Volume and Market Share
France is renowned for its cheese production, with a wide range of traditional and artisanal cheeses. The country is expected to produce over 2 million metric tons of cheese in 2025, maintaining its position as a key player in the global cheese market.
Industry Insights
The French cheese industry is characterized by its rich heritage and tradition of cheese making. Companies such as Lactalis, Bel Group, and Groupe Savencia are prominent players in the French cheese market, producing a wide variety of cheeses loved by consumers worldwide.
4. Italy
Production Volume and Market Share
Italy is famous for its cheese production, particularly for cheeses such as Parmesan, Mozzarella, and Gorgonzola. The country is expected to produce over 1.5 million metric tons of cheese in 2025, solidifying its position as a top cheese producer globally.
Industry Insights
The Italian cheese industry is known for its high-quality and authentic cheeses, produced by companies like Parmalat, Granarolo, and Galbani. These companies are key players in the Italian cheese market, catering to domestic and international consumers.
5. Netherlands
Production Volume and Market Share
The Netherlands is a major cheese producer in Europe, known for its Gouda and Edam cheeses. The country is expected to produce over 1 million metric tons of cheese in 2025, contributing significantly to the European cheese market.
Industry Insights
The Dutch cheese industry is characterized by its innovative approach to cheese making and sustainable practices. Companies such as FrieslandCampina, Royal A-ware, and DOC Dairy Partners are leading players in the Dutch cheese market, producing a wide range of cheese products for consumers worldwide.
6. Poland
Production Volume and Market Share
Poland is a rising star in the global cheese market, with a growing production volume and market share. The country is expected to produce over 800,000 metric tons of cheese in 2025, showcasing its potential as a key player in the cheese industry.
Industry Insights
The Polish cheese industry is characterized by its diverse range of cheese varieties and competitive prices. Companies such as Mlekovita, Hochland Polska, and Spomlek are leading players in the Polish cheese market, offering quality cheese products to consumers both domestically and internationally.
7. Russia
Production Volume and Market Share
Russia is a significant cheese producer in Eastern Europe, with a growing production volume and market share. The country is expected to produce over 700,000 metric tons of cheese in 2025, expanding its presence in the global cheese market.
Industry Insights
The Russian cheese industry is evolving rapidly, with companies like Syrovarnya, Cheese Club, and Ostankinsky Dairy Plant leading the way in cheese production. These companies are driving innovation and growth in the Russian cheese market, catering to the increasing demand for cheese among consumers.
8. Switzerland
Production Volume and Market Share
Switzerland is known for its high-quality and premium cheeses, such as Emmental and Gruyère. The country is expected to produce over 600,000 metric tons of cheese in 2025, maintaining its reputation as a top cheese producer in Europe.
Industry Insights
The Swiss cheese industry is characterized by its focus on craftsmanship and tradition, with companies like Emmi, Lactalis Suisse, and Cremo leading the way in cheese production. These companies are known for their commitment to quality and innovation, producing some of the finest cheeses in the world.
9. United Kingdom
Production Volume and Market Share
The United Kingdom has a long history of cheese production, with a diverse range of cheese varieties. The country is expected to produce over 500,000 metric tons of cheese in 2025, maintaining its position as a key player in the European cheese market.
Industry Insights
The British cheese industry is known for its traditional cheeses such as Cheddar and Stilton, produced by companies like Dairy Crest, Belton Cheese, and Wyke Farms. These companies are driving growth and innovation in the UK cheese market, catering to the evolving tastes of consumers.
10. Australia
Production Volume and Market Share
Australia is a growing cheese producer in the Asia-Pacific region, with a diverse range of cheese varieties. The country is expected to produce over 400,000 metric tons of cheese in 2025, expanding its presence in the global cheese market.
Industry Insights
The Australian cheese industry is characterized by its focus on quality and sustainability, with companies like Bega Cheese, Fonterra Brands, and Saputo Dairy Australia leading the way in cheese production. These companies are driving growth and innovation in the Australian cheese market, catering to the growing demand for cheese among consumers in the region.
In conclusion, the top 10 functional cheese producing countries in the world in 2025 are major players in the global cheese market, with significant production volumes, market share, and industry insights. These countries are driving innovation and growth in the cheese industry, producing high-quality cheese products loved by consumers worldwide.
