The Italian dairy sector is experiencing significant growth in foreign trade.
In the first six months of 2024, Italian companies exported 93,000 tons of cheese, reaching a total value of 844 million euros. These numbers represent a 14% increase in volume and an 11% increase in value, according to data collected by Assolatte.
Italy thus proves itself as the European leader in cheese export in value, ranking second in volume, preceded only by Germany.
Specifically, our country has achieved the top position as the leading European exporter of dairy products in key non-European markets such as the United States (19,800 tons), Switzerland (13,100 tons), China (6,070 tons), the United Arab Emirates (1,700 tons), and Canada (3,750 tons).
Among the most appreciated cheeses in these countries are fresh varieties such as mozzarella, burrata, and ricotta, which continue to obtain great international success.
The increase in exports of Italian cheeses is a clear sign of the sector's competitiveness, which stands out for the quality of its dairy products, systematically placed in the premium price range of international markets, confirming their status as gastronomic excellences.
This success is the result of continuous investments by Italian dairy companies in research, as well as a well-planned export strategy capable of adapting to the needs of an increasingly demanding and informed audience.
Non-EU markets represent a complex challenge for Italian producers due to the vast diversification in tastes and consumption habits. Despite this, Made in Italy continues to be perceived by consumers as synonymous with excellence, solidifying the position of Italian cheeses as gourmet reference products even in these countries.
At Caseificio Ignalat, we have seized these opportunities, successfully positioning ourselves in non-European markets thanks to a winning combination of quality and tradition. Over the years, Ignalat Apulian cheeses have garnered growing appreciation across extra-European markets, from American to Asian markets, thanks to their unmistakable flavor, distinctive quality, and the company's ability to adapt its products to international regulatory, logistics and distribution requirements.
A key factor in this success is undoubtedly the integrity of our production chain, rigorously controlled, based on 100% Italian raw materials and processes that meet the strictest international standards, as evidenced by BRC and IFS FOOD certifications. Our dedication to quality has enabled us to receive positive feedback even in countries with strong local culinary traditions, where the authentic taste of Apulian cheeses has won over the public.
For us at Caseificio Ignalat, consolidating our international positioning is not just a matter of numbers, but the result of a carefully and farsightedly built strategy, focusing on structured exports and an international vision for our products.
The positive trend in Italian dairy exports demonstrates the appreciation and trust of international consumers towards authentic and genuine products like Italian cheeses.
We at Caseificio Ignalat are proud to be an active part of this success story and continue to work every day to bring the goodness and artisanal tradition of Made in Puglia cheeses to the world, while maintaining a strong connection to our homeland.