As per the latest disclosures from the Consortium for the Protection of Gorgonzola PDO on 2023 exports, volumes managed to hold firm despite a challenging economic climate, while values experienced a significant uptick compared to 2022. Last year witnessed a 1.1% surge in exports, totaling 24,982 tons or 2,081,834 wheels exported, with the overall value skyrocketing by approximately €202 million, marking a remarkable 15.5% increase compared to 2022 (source: Clal).
Gorgonzola PDO remains a cornerstone of Italian culinary exports, boasting a presence in 91 countries worldwide and accounting for around 40% of total production exported, totaling five million and 179,000 wheels in 2023.
EXPORTS TO EU MARKETS
The European Union continues to serve as a crucial destination for Gorgonzola PDO exports, soaking up a substantial share of the market. Notably, exports to the top two EU importers, France (485,803 wheels) and Germany (442,800) remained largely steady in 2023, with Spain (155,164) witnessing a notable 8% uptick. Furthermore, standout sales performances were recorded in emerging markets such as Macedonia (+89%), Bosnia and Herzegovina (+51%), Norway (+40%), Ukraine (+28%), and Poland (+15%).
NON-EU MARKETS
Outside the EU, Gorgonzola PDO exports witnessed a robust 2.9% growth, reaching 296,583 wheels in 2023. Switzerland emerged as a significant importer with 85,465 forms, while the United Kingdom rebounded with an 8% growth post-Brexit, receiving 44,347 wheels. Meanwhile, Japan retained its position as the foremost non-EU importer for the third consecutive year, acquiring 44,482 wheels, representing a notable 15% increase. Other noteworthy markets include the USA (32,738 wheels, +1.56%), with remarkable sales performances observed in Indonesia (+147%), Costa Rica (+48%), and Hong Kong (+40%).