Introduction
Gouda cheese is a popular type of cheese that originated in the Netherlands and is now enjoyed worldwide for its rich and creamy flavor. In this report, we will analyze the top 10 gouda cheese importing countries in the world in 2025. We will provide insights into the import volumes, market trends, and key players in the industry.
United States
Import Volumes
The United States is one of the largest importers of gouda cheese in the world. In 2025, the country imported over 50,000 metric tons of gouda cheese, with a total value of $200 million.
Market Trends
The demand for gouda cheese in the United States has been steadily increasing due to the growing popularity of European cheeses among American consumers. Gouda cheese is often used in gourmet dishes and is also enjoyed as a standalone snack.
Key Players
Some of the key players in the gouda cheese import market in the United States include Dutch Lady, Beemster, and Reypenaer. These companies are known for their high-quality gouda cheese products and have a strong presence in the market.
Germany
Import Volumes
Germany is another major importer of gouda cheese, with import volumes reaching 40,000 metric tons in 2025. The total value of gouda cheese imports in Germany was estimated at $180 million.
Market Trends
In Germany, gouda cheese is a popular choice among consumers for its versatile taste and texture. The market for gouda cheese in Germany is competitive, with both domestic and international brands vying for market share.
Key Players
Some of the leading gouda cheese importers in Germany include Old Amsterdam, Frico, and Gouda Holland. These companies have a strong distribution network and offer a wide range of gouda cheese products to cater to different consumer preferences.
France
Import Volumes
France is known for its rich culinary tradition, and gouda cheese is a popular choice among French consumers. In 2025, France imported over 30,000 metric tons of gouda cheese, with a total import value of $150 million.
Market Trends
The demand for gouda cheese in France is driven by the country’s love for cheese and gourmet cuisine. Gouda cheese is often used in traditional French dishes and is also enjoyed on cheese platters and sandwiches.
Key Players
Some of the key players in the gouda cheese import market in France include Leerdammer, Maasdam, and Leyden. These companies offer a range of gouda cheese products to cater to the diverse tastes of French consumers.
United Kingdom
Import Volumes
The United Kingdom is a significant importer of gouda cheese, with import volumes reaching 25,000 metric tons in 2025. The total import value of gouda cheese in the UK was estimated at $120 million.
Market Trends
In the UK, gouda cheese is a popular choice for its mild and creamy flavor. The market for gouda cheese in the UK is competitive, with both domestic and international brands vying for consumer attention.
Key Players
Some of the leading gouda cheese importers in the UK include Lidl, Aldi, and Tesco. These companies offer a wide range of gouda cheese products to cater to the diverse tastes of British consumers.
Italy
Import Volumes
Italy is known for its rich culinary heritage, and gouda cheese is a popular choice among Italian consumers. In 2025, Italy imported over 20,000 metric tons of gouda cheese, with a total import value of $100 million.
Market Trends
The demand for gouda cheese in Italy is driven by the country’s love for cheese and gourmet cuisine. Gouda cheese is often used in Italian dishes such as pasta, risotto, and salads.
Key Players
Some of the key players in the gouda cheese import market in Italy include BelGioioso, Emmi, and Sargento. These companies offer high-quality gouda cheese products to cater to the discerning tastes of Italian consumers.
Spain
Import Volumes
Spain is a growing market for gouda cheese, with import volumes reaching 15,000 metric tons in 2025. The total import value of gouda cheese in Spain was estimated at $80 million.
Market Trends
In Spain, gouda cheese is gaining popularity among consumers for its creamy texture and mild flavor. The market for gouda cheese in Spain is competitive, with both domestic and international brands vying for market share.
Key Players
Some of the leading gouda cheese importers in Spain include Arla, Lactalis, and Galbani. These companies offer a range of gouda cheese products to cater to the diverse tastes of Spanish consumers.
Canada
Import Volumes
Canada is a significant importer of gouda cheese, with import volumes reaching 10,000 metric tons in 2025. The total import value of gouda cheese in Canada was estimated at $60 million.
Market Trends
In Canada, gouda cheese is a popular choice for its creamy texture and mild flavor. The market for gouda cheese in Canada is competitive, with both domestic and international brands vying for consumer attention.
Key Players
Some of the key players in the gouda cheese import market in Canada include Agropur, Saputo, and Gay Lea. These companies offer a wide range of gouda cheese products to cater to the diverse tastes of Canadian consumers.
Australia
Import Volumes
Australia is an emerging market for gouda cheese, with import volumes reaching 8,000 metric tons in 2025. The total import value of gouda cheese in Australia was estimated at $50 million.
Market Trends
In Australia, gouda cheese is gaining popularity among consumers for its creamy texture and versatile taste. The market for gouda cheese in Australia is growing, with more consumers incorporating gouda cheese into their culinary creations.
Key Players
Some of the leading gouda cheese importers in Australia include Bega Cheese, Devondale, and Warrnambool Cheese & Butter. These companies offer a range of gouda cheese products to cater to the diverse tastes of Australian consumers.
Japan
Import Volumes
Japan is a growing market for gouda cheese, with import volumes reaching 7,000 metric tons in 2025. The total import value of gouda cheese in Japan was estimated at $40 million.
Market Trends
In Japan, gouda cheese is gaining popularity among consumers for its creamy texture and mild flavor. The market for gouda cheese in Japan is competitive, with both domestic and international brands vying for market share.
Key Players
Some of the key players in the gouda cheese import market in Japan include Meiji, Megmilk Snow Brand, and Morinaga. These companies offer a range of gouda cheese products to cater to the diverse tastes of Japanese consumers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, gouda cheese is a popular choice among consumers worldwide, with demand steadily increasing in key importing countries such as the United States, Germany, and France. The market for gouda cheese is competitive, with both domestic and international brands vying for consumer attention. By understanding the import volumes, market trends, and key players in the industry, companies can make informed decisions to capitalize on the growing popularity of gouda cheese in the global market.
