Cheese Imports to Ukraine Increase by 27%, Local Producers Face Profit Losses

In the first half of 2025, imports of hard and semi-hard cheeses to Ukraine increased by 27%. The share of imported products in this segment exceeds one-third of sales. To retain customers, Ukrainian factories are forced to lower prices, leading to losses. Imports of "white cheeses" rose by 15%, with foreign products occupying about 50% of the market in some categories. The main reason for the increase in imports is the lower prices of European cheeses. Exports of semi-hard cheeses from Ukraine decreased by 15%, with the total volume of sales abroad being three times less than the volume of imports. Successes in foreign markets are observed only among a few companies. Overall, cheese product exports increased by 15%, however, shipments of processed cheese products fell by nearly 20%. Analysts warn that without improving export capabilities and increasing competitiveness, Ukrainian producers will struggle to compete with cheaper European cheeses.