Top 10 Cheese Producers Worldwide (2024)

Cheese consumption has surged worldwide as consumers increasingly adopt Western-style eating patterns and seek versatile sources of protein and calcium. From artisanal European varieties to high-volume American cheddar, the global cheese industry continues to expand, reshaped by culinary trends, urbanisation, and export-driven dairy economies.

In addition to culinary appeal, cheese is recognised for its nutritional strengths, providing high-quality proteins, essential fatty acids, and vital micronutrients such as calcium, phosphorus, and vitamins A and B12. 

According to USDA, global per-capita cheese consumption has increased steadily over the past decade, supported by rising incomes and the expansion of fast-food chains that rely heavily on cheese-based menus.

As a result, countries with developing dairy sectors, particularly in Latin America and parts of Asia, are investing heavily in modern cheese processing technologies to meet domestic demand. 

Top Cheese Producers Worldwide

Cheese production is geographically concentrated, with a few major regions responsible for the majority of global supply.

1. European Union

The European Union produces 10.7 million metric tons of cheese, equal to 47% of global output. The region benefits from a long history of dairy farming, strong breeding programs and high milk yields across northern and western Europe. The diversity of cheese styles reflects both local traditions and well-established regulatory systems such as PDO classification, which protects regional products and supports premium pricing.

Germany, France, Italy and the Netherlands lead EU production. Germany’s industry is driven by high-efficiency plants that focus on large-volume varieties. France and Italy are known for protected cheeses that support export strength and maintain high consumer loyalty. The Netherlands specialises in large-scale production of semi-hard cheeses like Gouda and Edam, contributing to the region’s strong trade presence. Together, EU nations supply a wide range of cheeses for retail, industrial use and food-service chains worldwide.

2. United States

The United States produces 6.46 million metric tons of cheese, contributing 29% of global output. The scale of its dairy farms and processing facilities allows consistent growth in both domestic consumption and exports. Wisconsin remains the country’s largest producer, supported by a large milk supply, skilled processors and a strong infrastructure for specialty cheeses. California and Idaho contribute heavily through large dairies and continuous investment in modern processing systems.

Cheddar and Mozzarella dominate U.S. output. Mozzarella demand remains strong due to steady growth in the pizza industry. Cheddar production continues to expand through both retail and industrial channels. The U.S. also exports growing quantities of whey and cheese powders for food manufacturing, strengthening the role of cheese as a core part of the nation's dairy economy.

3. Russia

Russia produces 1.16 million metric tons of cheese, supplying 5% of global output. Prior to 2014, a large share of Russia’s cheese came from imports, mainly from Europe. Import restrictions introduced that year reshaped the sector by pushing domestic manufacturers to scale up production. Investment in processing plants, updated equipment and training programs helped local producers increase output quickly.

Hard and semi-hard cheeses lead production due to strong demand in retail and food-service. Government-backed dairy initiatives have improved milk supply quality, which has allowed the industry to replace many previously imported varieties. Russia continues to expand its processing capacity and is strengthening regional brands that appeal to local consumers.

4. Brazil

Brazil produces 775,000 metric tons of cheese. Minas Gerais is the country's main dairy hub, known for both industrial production and well-established artisanal traditions such as Minas cheese. São Paulo contributes through a combination of domestic brands and industrial-scale plants serving major cities.

Demand for Mozzarella continues to increase due to Brazil’s large and expanding pizza market. This has encouraged producers to increase milk supply and invest in larger plants. Brazil is also expanding exports within Latin America, driven by competitive pricing and rising recognition for certain regional cheeses.

5. Canada

Canada produces 530,000 metric tons of cheese. Quebec accounts for the majority of production thanks to strong dairy herds, established cooperatives and a wide portfolio of both industrial and specialty cheeses. Ontario follows with a blend of large manufacturers and smaller specialty producers.

Cheddar and Mozzarella remain the core products. Canada’s supply management system ensures stable milk prices and helps processors maintain consistent quality standards. Specialty cheeses play an important role in export markets, where Canada competes on quality rather than volume.

6. Argentina

Argentina produces 500,000 metric tons of cheese and maintains a strong dairy farming base, especially in Santa Fe, Córdoba and Buenos Aires provinces. These regions benefit from high-quality pasture, which contributes to the flavour profile of local cheeses.

Reggianito remains the most recognised Argentine cheese in export markets. Its long aging period and firm texture make it suitable for both retail and food manufacturing. Argentina continues to expand its presence in Latin America, the Middle East and parts of Europe through competitive pricing and reliable supply.

7. United Kingdom

The United Kingdom produces 495,000 metric tons of cheese. Cheddar accounts for more than half of national output and remains one of the most widely consumed cheeses in British households. The UK’s Cheddar industry includes both large processors and smaller regional producers that supply specialty markets.

Farmhouse and artisan cheeses have grown in visibility through local food movements and export interest from high-end retailers. The UK also exports Cheddar to several markets, supported by consistent quality and established branding.

8. Mexico

Mexico produces 474,000 metric tons of cheese. Its production base supports strong domestic demand, especially for fresh varieties used daily in home cooking. Small and medium-sized producers make up a significant share of the sector, alongside larger companies that supply supermarkets and national food chains.

Queso Fresco, Oaxaca and Panela are among the most widely consumed cheeses. Growth in packaged and processed formats is driven by urbanisation and rising demand for ready-to-use dairy products.

9. New Zealand

New Zealand produces 410,000 metric tons of cheese. Its dairy sector is export-oriented, with milk production centred on pasture-based systems that support cost-effective output. Large cooperatives manage much of the production, ensuring consistent quality for global buyers.

Cheddar, processed cheeses and dairy ingredients form the core of New Zealand’s cheese exports. The country supplies markets in Asia, the Middle East and parts of Europe, benefiting from established trade relationships and strong demand for dairy proteins.

10. Australia

Australia produces 400,000 metric tons of cheese, with most output concentrated in Victoria and Tasmania. These regions have well-developed dairy farming systems and access to reliable processing infrastructure.

Cheddar and Mozzarella lead production, serving both domestic consumption and growing export volumes to Asia. Specialty cheese categories are supported by small and mid-sized producers that contribute to Australia’s reputation in higher-quality segments of the market.

Final Word

The EU continues to dominate the premium space, while the U.S. and Brazil are emerging as volume leaders for food-service chains. With rising income levels in Asia and Latin America, the next decade is expected to see faster growth in cheese consumption outside traditional dairy markets as more consumers integrate cheese into daily diets.