Gorgonzola PDO cheese closed 2024 with record-breaking results, driven by strong domestic demand and a solid export performance, according to figures presented at the annual general meeting of the Gorgonzola Protection Consortium in Milan. However, despite encouraging early 2025 numbers, the outlook is clouded by rising production costs, geopolitical tensions, and growing concerns over brand protection.
RECORD PRODUCTION, SPICY VARIETY LEADS GROWTH
Production of Gorgonzola PDO surpassed 5.277 million wheels in 2024—the highest volume on record. Early data for 2025 suggest continued momentum, with 1.79 million wheels produced by April 30, marking a 0.8% year-on-year increase.
The spicy variant has emerged as a key growth driver, registering a 20.3% increase, while organic Gorgonzola declined by 7.8%, bucking the overall trend.
EXPORTS BOLSTER SECTOR AMID GLOBAL UNCERTAINTY
Exports grew by 4.8% in 2024, reaching 26,188 tonnes, with the EU market—led by Germany and France—posting a 5.4% increase. Non-EU markets saw more modest gains of 0.8%, with Gorgonzola PDO reaching 87 countries globally.
However, exports dipped 1.4% in the first two months of 2025, prompting concern within the Consortium. President Antonio Auricchio called for stronger support from government institutions and the Italian Trade Agency to safeguard international growth, while reiterating the Consortium’s commitment to product quality.
RISING COSTS AND TRADE TENSIONS WEIGH ON OUTLOOK
Auricchio warned of mounting challenges facing producers. Energy costs remain elevated, and milk prices have increased by 12–13%, placing pressure on margins. International trade remains volatile, with lingering effects from the Trump-era tariffs still felt across the sector.
Auricchio announced plans to raise these concerns directly with the US Ambassador at the upcoming Summer Fancy Food Show in New York, arguing that current trade policies penalise both Italian producers and American consumers.
BRAND PROTECTION A STRATEGIC PRIORITY
The ongoing threat of “Italian-sounding” products remains a key concern. In response, the Consortium has stepped up legal protections, filing 102 new trademark applications in 2024 and securing registrations for the “Gorgonzola” name and Consortium brand in 96 countries.
These efforts aim to shield the designation from imitations and ensure consumers have access to authentic products that meet strict production standards.