US Dairy Imports Decline by 10% in 2025, USDA Reports
In 2025, the United States experienced a notable decline in dairy import values, which amounted to $4.8 billion, marking a 10% decrease from the previous year's record of $5.37 billion. This information was provided by the USDA's Foreign Agricultural Service and highlighted in the Cheese Reporter. Prior to this downturn, the value of US dairy imports had been on a consistent upward trajectory since 2018, which saw import values at $2.8 billion.
New Zealand emerged as the leading source of US dairy imports, contributing $720 million worth of goods, although this was a 6% reduction compared to 2024. Ireland's exports to the US experienced a more pronounced decline, dropping by 39% to $545.5 million. Italy and the Netherlands also saw reductions in their exports to the US, with declines of 22% and 11% respectively.
In contrast, France increased its dairy exports to the US by 13%, reaching $449 million. Denmark's exports rose by 22%, totaling $227.5 million. Canada and Mexico also saw increases, with Canadian exports rising by 4% to $432.8 million, and Mexican exports growing by 3% to $325.4 million.
US cheese imports specifically amounted to 420.8 million pounds in 2025, marking an 11% decline from the previous year and the lowest level since 2022 when imports totaled 414.5 million pounds. The peak for US cheese imports was recorded in 2002 with 475 million pounds. The value of cheese imports in 2025 was $1.64 billion, a 15% decrease from 2024.
