MADRID, Sep 16 (EUROPA PRESS) – Spanish cheese exports recorded in the first half of 2024 exceed those recorded during the same period of the previous year, when they reached their historical maximum in both volume and value, according to the Interprofessional Dairy Organization (InLac) during its participation in Fromago Cheese Experience. Specifically, 62,144.86 tons worth 409.20 million euros have been recorded during the first six months of 2024, 15.5% and 12.5% more, respectively, compared to the first half of 2023, according to the Spanish Tax Administration Agency (AEAT). This growth not only certifies Spain's leadership in the closest markets such as France, Portugal and Italy, but also marks a milestone in strategic markets such as the United States, which last year accounted for 13% of the total value of Spanish cheese exports, ranking as the third most important destination, and which in 2024 has already acquired 4,903 tonnes for 58.77 million euros. On the other hand, Inlac highlights the situation in domestic consumption, which is also positive, as it is growing progressively in Spain, after increasing by 3% over the last year and approaching 10 kilos per person per year, according to figures provided by Eurostat. A good figure for the sector, despite being far from the European Union average, which amounts to 21 kilos per person per year, if it were not for the greater presence of imported cheeses, since in Spain, cheese imports increased by 10.7% year-on-year in 2023, to 361,723 tonnes, according to the AEAT, which shows that the latter are gaining ground on national origin. In fact, during the first half of the year this trend has intensified by 15% compared to the same period of the previous year, with 199,295 tonnes of cheese imported up to last June. The Netherlands (88,672 tonnes in 2023) and Germany (79,407 tonnes in 2023) stand out as the main suppliers of cheeses in the Spanish market. “Behind every Spanish cheese there is a story of dedication, of strengthened local communities and of a cultural heritage that should be appreciated and promoted by all. These are traits that imported cheeses do not have, which are not very differentiated and have little added value. We must preserve an authentic symbol of national gastronomy, whose impact is positive in our rural areas, where cheese provides employment and prosperity,” explained the president of InLac, Daniel Ferreiro.
Spanish cheese exports grow by 15.5% and break a record until June, while domestic consumption picks up
