Top 10 Whey Permeate Importing Countries in the World in 2025
Introduction
Whey permeate is a byproduct of the cheese-making process and has gained popularity as a functional ingredient in food and beverage products. In 2025, the global demand for whey permeate continues to rise, leading to increased imports by various countries around the world. This report will provide an overview of the top 10 whey permeate importing countries in 2025, highlighting their import volumes, key players, and industry insights.
1. China
China remains one of the largest importers of whey permeate in the world in 2025. The country’s growing dairy industry and increasing demand for whey-based products have driven the import volumes significantly. Key players in the Chinese market include Mengniu Dairy, Yili Group, and Bright Dairy. The trend of using whey permeate as a cost-effective ingredient in food processing has further fueled the import demand in China.
2. United States
The United States is another major importer of whey permeate, with a strong presence in the dairy industry. Companies like Dairy Farmers of America, Glanbia Nutritionals, and Hilmar Ingredients are key players in the US market. The demand for whey permeate in the US is driven by its use in a wide range of applications, including bakery, confectionery, and animal feed.
3. Germany
Germany is a prominent importer of whey permeate in Europe, with a well-established dairy industry. Companies like DMK Group, Hochwald Foods, and Arla Foods Ingredients are leading players in the German market. The country’s focus on innovation in food processing and the use of whey permeate as a functional ingredient have contributed to the growth in import volumes.
4. Japan
Japan is a key importer of whey permeate in Asia, with a strong demand for dairy products. Companies like Meiji Holdings, Morinaga Milk, and Megmilk Snow Brand are major players in the Japanese market. The use of whey permeate in traditional Japanese cuisine and the development of new dairy products have driven the import demand in Japan.
5. Netherlands
The Netherlands is a significant importer of whey permeate in Europe, with a well-developed dairy industry. Companies like FrieslandCampina, Royal A-ware, and Vreugdenhil Dairy Foods are leading players in the Dutch market. The country’s expertise in dairy processing and the use of whey permeate in infant formula and sports nutrition products have boosted import volumes.
6. South Korea
South Korea is a growing importer of whey permeate in Asia, with a rising demand for dairy products. Companies like Seoul Dairy Cooperative, Maeil Dairies, and Namyang Dairy are key players in the South Korean market. The increasing popularity of whey-based beverages and snacks has driven the import demand in South Korea.
7. Italy
Italy is a significant importer of whey permeate in Europe, with a strong tradition of dairy processing. Companies like Granarolo, Parmalat, and Lactalis are major players in the Italian market. The use of whey permeate in traditional Italian cheese-making and the development of new dairy products have contributed to the growth in import volumes.
8. France
France is a key importer of whey permeate in Europe, with a diverse dairy industry. Companies like Lactalis, Savencia Fromage & Dairy, and Danone are leading players in the French market. The country’s focus on sustainable food production and the use of whey permeate in functional foods have fueled the import demand in France.
9. Australia
Australia is a notable importer of whey permeate in the Asia-Pacific region, with a growing dairy industry. Companies like Fonterra, Murray Goulburn, and Bega Cheese are key players in the Australian market. The use of whey permeate in sports nutrition products and functional beverages has driven the import demand in Australia.
10. Brazil
Brazil is an emerging importer of whey permeate in South America, with a developing dairy industry. Companies like Lactalis do Brasil, Danone Brazil, and Nestle Brasil are major players in the Brazilian market. The increasing demand for whey-based products and the use of whey permeate in dairy processing have led to growth in import volumes in Brazil.
In conclusion, the global demand for whey permeate continues to rise in 2025, driving increased imports by top importing countries around the world. Key players in the industry are capitalizing on the versatility and functionality of whey permeate in various food and beverage applications, leading to a competitive market landscape. As consumer preferences for healthy and sustainable products continue to evolve, the demand for whey permeate is expected to grow further in the coming years.
