The Italian dairy sector has reached a significant milestone in the first half of 2026. According to the latest data released by Assolatte, the trade association representing the industry, Italian cheese exports have crossed the 3 billion euro mark for the first time in a mid-year period. Total export volumes reached nearly 350,000 tons, representing a 3.4% increase compared to the same period in 2025.
Market performance and export growth
This growth, amounting to over 11,400 additional tons of product on international markets, confirms the strong competitiveness of Italian companies despite a global economic climate marked by geopolitical tensions and rising logistical costs. “Surpassing 3 billion euros in export turnover at mid-year and nearing 350,000 tons is a result of great importance for our dairy industry,” said Paolo Zanetti, President of Assolatte.
Key drivers of success
From a product category perspective, the sector’s performance has been broad-based. Mozzarella (+3%), fresh cheeses (+7.3%), and grated products (+2.4%) all recorded positive trends. Iconic products such as Grana Padano PDO and Parmigiano Reggiano PDO saw a growth of 3.5%, while Provolone registered an increase of 5.6%.
The role of international markets
Geographically, growth was primarily driven by the European Union, where volumes increased by 4.4%. Performance in markets such as Austria, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Poland was particularly dynamic, all recording double-digit growth. Significant results were also achieved in France (+2.8%), Germany (+4.1%), Spain (+4.6%), and Greece. However, President Zanetti noted that the path forward requires strategic effort: “To support our presence on international markets and defend our market shares, many companies have worked on their margins. Italy has now moved to second place for cheese exports to non-EU markets, behind Germany; it is a signal that we cannot underestimate.”