Italy’s dairy sector is achieving record-breaking results on the global stage. According to the latest “Milk Trends” report published by ISMEA, Italy has reached second place worldwide among cheese and dairy exporters, overtaking giants like France and the Netherlands, and ranking just behind Germany.

In 2024, cheese exports reached 658,000 tons, with a 10.7% increase in volume and a 9.2% increase in value compared to the previous year. Total export value exceeded €5.4 billion, consolidating Italy’s leadership in the global agri-food sector. The positive trend has continued into 2025: in the first quarter, exports grew by 13.8% in value and 3.4% in volume, driven by the strong appeal of fresh cheeses, major DOP varieties, and grated cheeses. In particular, fresh Italian specialties led the way, recording a +12.4% increase in volume and +9.5% in value, confirming growing international demand for these products.

While France and Germany remain the main trade partners, accounting for 36% of total exports, non-European markets are becoming increasingly strategic. The United States and the United Kingdom show particularly strong performance, thanks to the premium positioning of Italian cheeses in both retail and food service channels, while East Asia is emerging as a high-potential frontier.

The growth of Italian cheese exports is the result of structural transformations in global markets and consumption models, such as geographic diversification of demand, population growth, increasing demand for high-quality protein like dairy products, and the adaptation of Italian supply chains to international quality and safety standards. Italian dairy companies, by voluntarily adhering to internationally recognized certification standards such as BRC, IFS, UNI EN ISO, and by implementing advanced logistics chains, are able to meet foreign buyers’ demands for certified quality, traceability, extended shelf life, and efficient logistics, positioning themselves as reliable suppliers.

What truly sets them apart is the ability of Italian companies to evolve through innovation. Investments in advanced production technologies and extended cold chains support Italy’s export capabilities, enabling producers to ship ultra-fresh and perishable products like Burrata and Mozzarella, while preserving freshness and integrity, even thousands of kilometers away.

A prime example is Caseificio Ignalat, which has turned the challenge of internationalization into a solid growth opportunity. Through strict supply chain control, full compliance with international food safety standards, adaptability to international market dynamics, and a product offering tailored to local consumption habits, Ignalat positions itself not just as a producer, but as a strategic partner for international importers and distributors seeking quality, local identity, and high standards.

The ISMEA analysis delivers a clear and positive message, encouraging Italian companies to invest in structured, forward-thinking internationalization strategies.

In this context, at Caseificio Ignalat, we look beyond commercial expansion. Our goal is to create recognized and lasting value, based on reputation, reliability, and innovation. In a world where quality and authenticity become increasingly strategic assets, we are committed to strengthening our position as a trusted partner for those seeking not just a product, but a story, a tradition, and a supply chain that represent the very best of Made in Italy around the world.