Top 10 infant formula importing countries in 2025

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Written by Robert Gultig

13 May 2025

Introduction

The infant formula market is a booming industry, with countries importing significant amounts of infant formula to meet the growing demand for high-quality nutrition for babies. In this report, we will delve into the top 10 infant formula importing countries in 2025, providing detailed insights into their import volumes, key players, and industry trends.

United States

Import Volume and Market Share

The United States is one of the largest importers of infant formula globally, with a high demand for premium quality products. In 2025, the country imported over 500,000 metric tons of infant formula, accounting for a market share of around 20%.

Key Players

Some of the key players in the infant formula market in the United States include Abbott Laboratories, Nestle, and Danone. These companies dominate the market with their extensive product offerings and strong distribution networks.

Industry Trends

The infant formula market in the United States is characterized by a growing preference for organic and clean-label products. Consumers are increasingly opting for products that are free from artificial ingredients and additives, driving demand for premium and specialty infant formula products.

China

Import Volume and Market Share

China is another major player in the infant formula market, with a rapidly growing middle-class population driving demand for high-quality infant nutrition products. In 2025, China imported over 600,000 metric tons of infant formula, accounting for a market share of around 25%.

Key Players

Some of the key players in the infant formula market in China include Feihe International, Yili Group, and Beingmate. These companies are leading the market with their innovative product offerings and strong marketing strategies.

Industry Trends

The infant formula market in China is witnessing a shift towards premiumization, with consumers willing to pay a premium for products that offer superior quality and nutritional benefits. There is also a growing focus on e-commerce channels for infant formula sales, as consumers increasingly prefer the convenience of online shopping.

Germany

Import Volume and Market Share

Germany is a key importer of infant formula in Europe, with a strong demand for high-quality and organic products. In 2025, Germany imported over 300,000 metric tons of infant formula, accounting for a market share of around 15%.

Key Players

Some of the key players in the infant formula market in Germany include Hipp Organic, Humana, and Milupa. These companies are known for their organic and natural product offerings, catering to the growing demand for clean-label infant nutrition products.

Industry Trends

The infant formula market in Germany is experiencing a shift towards sustainability and environmental consciousness, with consumers increasingly seeking products that are produced in an environmentally friendly manner. There is also a growing trend towards plant-based infant formula products, as consumers become more mindful of their dietary choices.

France

Import Volume and Market Share

France is another significant importer of infant formula in Europe, with a strong demand for premium and specialty products. In 2025, France imported over 200,000 metric tons of infant formula, accounting for a market share of around 10%.

Key Players

Some of the key players in the infant formula market in France include Lactalis, Danone, and Nestle. These companies dominate the market with their diverse product portfolios and strong brand presence.

Industry Trends

The infant formula market in France is characterized by a growing demand for organic and natural products, with consumers increasingly seeking products that are free from artificial ingredients and additives. There is also a rising trend towards personalized nutrition in the infant formula segment, with companies offering customized products to meet the unique needs of each baby.

United Kingdom

Import Volume and Market Share

The United Kingdom is a key player in the infant formula market in Europe, with a strong demand for high-quality and premium products. In 2025, the UK imported over 150,000 metric tons of infant formula, accounting for a market share of around 8%.

Key Players

Some of the key players in the infant formula market in the UK include Aptamil, SMA Nutrition, and Cow & Gate. These companies are known for their innovative product offerings and strong brand presence in the market.

Industry Trends

The infant formula market in the UK is witnessing a growing trend towards transparency and traceability, with consumers increasingly seeking products that are produced using sustainable and ethical practices. There is also a rising demand for products that offer specific health benefits, such as immune support and digestive health.

Japan

Import Volume and Market Share

Japan is a significant importer of infant formula in Asia, with a strong demand for high-quality and safe products. In 2025, Japan imported over 100,000 metric tons of infant formula, accounting for a market share of around 5%.

Key Players

Some of the key players in the infant formula market in Japan include Meiji, Morinaga, and Wakodo. These companies are leading the market with their innovative product offerings and strong research and development capabilities.

Industry Trends

The infant formula market in Japan is characterized by a growing demand for products that offer specific health benefits, such as brain development and immune system support. There is also a rising trend towards organic and natural products, with consumers increasingly seeking products that are free from artificial ingredients and preservatives.

Australia

Import Volume and Market Share

Australia is a significant importer of infant formula in the Asia-Pacific region, with a strong demand for high-quality and safe products. In 2025, Australia imported over 80,000 metric tons of infant formula, accounting for a market share of around 4%.

Key Players

Some of the key players in the infant formula market in Australia include A2 Milk Company, Bellamy’s Organic, and Bubs Australia. These companies are known for their premium and organic product offerings, catering to the growing demand for clean-label infant nutrition products.

Industry Trends

The infant formula market in Australia is experiencing a shift towards premiumization, with consumers willing to pay a premium for products that offer superior quality and nutritional benefits. There is also a growing focus on online channels for infant formula sales, as consumers increasingly prefer the convenience of e-commerce platforms.

South Korea

Import Volume and Market Share

South Korea is a key importer of infant formula in Asia, with a strong demand for high-quality and safe products. In 2025, South Korea imported over 70,000 metric tons of infant formula, accounting for a market share of around 3%.

Key Players

Some of the key players in the infant formula market in South Korea include Maeil Dairies, Namyang Dairy, and Seoul Milk. These companies dominate the market with their extensive product offerings and strong brand presence.

Industry Trends

The infant formula market in South Korea is witnessing a growing trend towards premiumization, with consumers increasingly seeking products that offer superior quality and nutritional benefits. There is also a rising demand for organic and natural products, with consumers becoming more conscious of their dietary choices.

India

Import Volume and Market Share

India is a growing market for infant formula, with a rising middle-class population driving demand for high-quality and safe products. In 2025, India imported over 50,000 metric tons of infant formula, accounting for a market share of around 2%.

Key Players

Some of the key players in the infant formula market in India include Nestle India, Danone India, and Abbott India. These companies are leading the market with their diverse product portfolios and strong distribution networks.

Industry Trends

The infant formula market in India is characterized by a growing demand for products that offer specific health benefits, such as brain development and immune system support. There is also a rising trend towards premium and specialty products, as consumers become more willing to pay a premium for products that offer superior quality and nutritional benefits.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the infant formula market is a dynamic and rapidly growing industry, with countries around the world importing significant amounts of infant formula to meet the growing demand for high-quality nutrition for babies. The top 10 infant formula importing countries in 2025 are driving the market with their strong demand for premium and safe products, as well as their focus on innovation and sustainability. As consumer preferences continue to evolve, it will be crucial for companies to stay ahead of the curve and adapt to changing market trends to remain competitive in the global infant formula market.

Related Analysis: View Previous Industry Report

Author: Robert Gultig in conjunction with ESS Research Team

Robert Gultig is a veteran Managing Director and International Trade Consultant with over 20 years of experience in global trading and market research. Robert leverages his deep industry knowledge and strategic marketing background (BBA) to provide authoritative market insights in conjunction with the ESS Research Team. If you would like to contribute articles or insights, please join our team by emailing support@essfeed.com.
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