In March 2024, Ukraine imported a record-high volume of Polish cheese compared to the pre-war period, which is being sold at a much lower price than domestic cheese, according to the industry analytical agency Infagro.
"It seems that a turning point has come in the Ukrainian cheese market. Either domestic cheese makers will be able to maintain their market, or they will be significantly squeezed out by European cheese suppliers," analysts warned.
They noted that if this trend continues, there will be another redistribution of the market among players.
"Consumers are increasingly choosing European cheese, which is mostly already offered cheaper than domestic cheese. Therefore, it is not surprising that the presence of Polish (and not only) cheese on store shelves is growing," experts emphasized.
They suggested that Poland increased cheese production by 10% in 2024 with a focus on supplies to Ukraine.
"The increase in production in Poland almost equals the total production of similar cheeses in Ukraine. This should alert domestic cheese makers," experts cautioned.
Additionally, the import price of European cheese remains lower after customs clearance than the price at which domestic producers offer their cheese to distributors.
In January 2024, Ukraine increased cheese imports by 42% compared to the same period in 2020.
