Chile's Dairy Imports Surge by 16% Driven by Gouda Cheese

Chile has witnessed a significant rise in dairy product imports, amounting to 345.3 million liters equivalent in the first five months of 2026. This marks a 16% increase compared to the previous period. Notably, the import of Gouda cheese has been a major contributor to this growth.

While Gouda cheese imports have surged, the country has experienced a sharp decline in the importation of whole milk powder. The figures show a dramatic drop of more than 84% for this product. This shift indicates changing preferences and demands in the Chilean dairy market.

The overall increase in dairy imports underscores a growing dependency on international dairy products to meet local demand. The data reflects the dynamic nature of the dairy trade in Chile, highlighting Gouda cheese as a product of significant interest.

This trend might affect local producers and could lead to adjustments in the domestic dairy industry. However, the exact implications for local markets remain to be seen as the year progresses.

As Chile continues to engage in international dairy trade, monitoring import patterns will be crucial for stakeholders within the industry.