The United States continues to solidify its position as the leading foreign market for Parmigiano Reggiano PDO. During the first five months of 2026, exports to the U.S. grew by 2.5%, reaching approximately 7,000 tons. Against a backdrop of global economic uncertainty and trade tensions, the iconic Italian PDO cheese continues to demonstrate the strength of its market positioning and its status as a premier symbol of Italian excellence.
The Protection Consortium has chosen the upcoming Summer Fancy Food Show’s 2026 edition in New York to outline its long-term development strategy for North America. By doubling its communication investments in the U.S., the organization aims to further educate consumers and bolster its presence among international buyers and retailers. Despite inflationary pressures, the demand remains robust, driven by a consumer base that prioritizes quality and brand authenticity.
A strategic vision for the U.S. market
The core of this growth strategy will be unveiled during the institutional event Inside Parmigiano Reggiano’s US growth, to be held at One Vanderbilt on June 28. The gathering will bring together over 100 representatives from the retail and distribution sectors, as well as institutional stakeholders and media, to discuss the next five years of the PDO’s expansion. The goal is to move beyond simple export figures to focus on building cultural relevance and expanding product availability in North American retail channels.
Investing in the future
Nicola Bertinelli (pictured in the center of the photo above, to his right is Matteo Zoppas, President of the Italian Trade Agency), President of the Consortium, emphasized that the objective is to build long-term value alongside American partners. “We want the product to be recognized as an authentic icon of the Made in Italy movement and an integral part of contemporary gastronomy,” Bertinelli noted. To support this vision, the Parmigiano Reggiano USA Corporation, established in 2024, is actively working to facilitate dialogue with local stakeholders and provide professional support to the trade.
Through strategic collaborations with organizations like the Italian Trade Agency (ITA-ICE) and the National Italian American Foundation (NIAF), the Consortium is positioning itself to capture further market share in the premium specialty cheese category, reinforcing its role as a leader in the global dairy market.