Ukraine exported 10,930 tonnes of dairy products worth 32.89 million US dollars in May 2026. Volume increased 2 percent and revenue 5 percent from April, although both remained below May 2025.
Leading export categories
Condensed milk and cream accounted for 31 percent, ice cream 26 percent and cheese 18 percent. May shipments of condensed products rose 18 percent, cheese 6 percent and ice cream 21 percent from the previous month.
Market conditions remain uneven
Butter demand weakened as Gulf purchases fell and inventories accumulated, while demand for skimmed milk powder, whey and protein ingredients remained stronger. European milk output may decline over the next decade, creating an opportunity for efficient Ukrainian processors.
Value-added production is decisive
Ukraine still exports large volumes of butter and powder with relatively low added value. Investment in cheese, fermented products, whey proteins, lactoferrin and modern cold-chain marketing can improve margins and reduce dependence on volatile commodity prices.
