Italy’s cheese export sector is enjoying historic momentum, with Lactalis Italia at the forefront. Marking the Giornata Nazionale del Made in Italy, the French-owned dairy giant has reinforced its position as a leading player in the Italian dairy export market. In 2024 alone, the company shipped 106,000 tonnes of cheese to 112 countries, generating more than €700 million in revenue—accounting for 16% of Italy’s total dairy exports. Over 40% of Lactalis Italia’s production is now bound for international markets.
The wider sector is experiencing unprecedented growth. In 2024, Italy exported over 658,000 tonnes of cheese—up 10.7% from the previous year—reaching a total export value exceeding €5.4 billion. Italy has overtaken traditional rivals to become the world’s second-largest cheese exporter, trailing only Germany, with a 7% rise year-on-year.
LACTALIS STRATEGIC INVESTMENT AND PDO EXPANSION
Looking ahead, Lactalis Italia has outlined an investment plan exceeding €68 million for 2025, aimed at strengthening its international footprint and enhancing the appeal of Italian dairy products. A significant focus is on product innovation tailored to export markets—such as a Galbani-branded Parmigiano Reggiano format for the U.S. and new offerings targeting France and wider Europe.
Its Ambrosi & Castelli division, specializing in PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) cheeses, plays a central strategic role. With 12 production sites and 70% of its sales comprised of PDO products—of which more than 60% are exported—the division anchors Lactalis Italia’s premium positioning. The group produces Italy’s best-known PDO cheeses, including Parmigiano Reggiano, Grana Padano, Gorgonzola, and Mozzarella di Bufala. In 2024, €15 million will be allocated to further upgrade its Ambrosi and Castelli plants.
BURRATA, MASCARPONE LEAD THE CHARGE
Global demand is also rising for specific Italian cheese varieties. Burrata exports grew 22% in 2024—more than double the national average—driven by robust demand from Germany, France, Spain, and Poland. Mascarpone also posted strong results, particularly in Romania, which now accounts for over a third of Italy’s mascarpone exports. Mozzarella continues to see steady demand in France and the UK, while Gorgonzola is expanding into new markets like Denmark.
EMERGING MARKETS FUEL GROWTH
Emerging markets are increasingly driving sector expansion. China and Saudi Arabia led global growth in Italian cheese imports, each posting a 31% year-on-year increase. Poland (+27%), Romania (+25%), Canada (+21%), the UAE (+19%), and Denmark (+18%) also showed strong momentum—underscoring the widening global appetite for Italian dairy.