Export Growth Momentum
In January–July 2025, Ukraine exported 8,100 tons of cheese, up 24.6% year-on-year. Export revenues reached $37.2 million, an increase of 32.9% compared to the same period in 2024, according to the State Customs Service.
July 2025 became a turning point: cheese exports doubled compared to July 2024, underscoring accelerating demand for Ukrainian dairy abroad.
Main Export Markets
Ukraine’s cheese exports are concentrated in three core destinations:
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Moldova — 33.8% of total exports,
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Kazakhstan — 30%,
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Germany — 9.1%.
The sharp rise in shipments to Central Asia was largely driven by the loss of Russian competitiveness, opening the door for Ukrainian producers to expand market share.
Imports Still Outpace Exports
Despite strong export growth, imports of cheese into Ukraine remain significantly higher:
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22,700 tons imported in Jan–Jul 2025 (+14.6% YoY),
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Valued at $143.2 million (+22.8% YoY).
Top suppliers to Ukraine:
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Poland — 44.7%,
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Germany — 13.7%,
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Netherlands — 8.1%.
Market Dynamics and Investor Outlook
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Export growth shows Ukraine’s dairy sector is competitive abroad, especially in Central Asia and EU markets.
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Import dominance reveals continued opportunities for domestic substitution and scaling local production.
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Rising demand for Ukrainian dairy signals strong potential for investment in processing capacity, branding, and logistics.
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Political shifts — particularly the decline of Russian suppliers — create a strategic opening for Ukraine to capture new long-term contracts.
✅ Conclusion:
Ukraine’s cheese exports are gaining momentum, with a 33% rise in value and market expansion in Moldova, Kazakhstan, and Germany. While imports remain higher, the sector shows clear signs of becoming a profitable branch for investment, offering opportunities in production expansion, export logistics, and import substitution.
