America’s dairy farmers supply milk for some of the highest-quality cheeses in the world – made by our world-class cheesemakers. U.S.-produced Parmesan, feta, Asiago and other specialty cheeses regularly best European competitors at international competitions (if they are allowed to compete), earning American cheesemakers loyal consumer bases all around the globe.
Last year, the U.S. dairy industry exported $2.2 billion worth of cheese overseas, making it the largest individual country exporter in the world. These exports play a vital role in supporting America’s 26,000 dairy farms and millions of other workers up and down the U.S. dairy supply chain.
While global demand for cheese is expected to continue to grow in the coming decades, American dairy exporters may not have the inside track on reaching these new customers. The reason, unfortunately, is political.
By Tony Rice
January 10, 2025
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