Cheese leads growth, but shifting demand – including weaker Chinese imports – is redirecting flows toward emerging export markets. At the same time, stronger supply growth in the US and Argentina is intensifying competition as Europe faces mounting constraints on milk production.
Global dairy trade continues to expand along a long‑term growth path of around 2% per year. The EU remains the largest exporter, but its global share is gradually declining as the US, Argentina, and Uruguay strengthen their positions, as can be seen when comparing our 2023 and 2026 maps.
China is still the largest importer, but its declining purchases are shifting exporters’ hopes toward markets in the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Brazil.
Among dairy products, cheese stands out as the strongest growth engine, while milk powders show weaker momentum. Butter surged in 2025 due to a sharp rise in US exports, and whey is becoming increasingly valuable amid strong demand for protein-based applications.
Looking ahead, global dairy trade is expected to keep growing steadily, slightly accelerating its pace, with the US and Argentina best positioned to drive future supply expansion as Europe faces tighter production constraints.
Our new World Dairy Map 2026 visualizes the latest global dairy trade flows, offering a snapshot of the current patterns behind these shifting trends.
Cheese Production in South Africa is a dynamic sector blending colonial European traditions with modern commercial and growing artisanal innovation. South Africa is one of Africa’s leading cheese producers, though its output remains modest on a global scale.
History Cheese-making in South Africa dates back to the 17th century with Dutch and French Huguenot settlers who brought traditional techniques. Early production was small-scale and mostly for personal use on farms.
Demand grew with population expansion. In the 19th century, large-scale commercial dairy farms emerged, producing popular varieties like Cheddar, Gouda, and Edam. The 20th century introduced technologies such as pasteurization and refrigeration, enabling larger factories and greater variety.
Today, most cheeses draw from English, Dutch, French, Italian, and other European influences, with Cheddar and Gouda dominating the market.
Current Production and Statistics
South Africa produces tens of thousands of tons of cheese annually, primarily from cow’s milk (with smaller goat, sheep, and buffalo contributions).
Recent figures: Cheese production reached an estimated 94,000 tons in 2024, with a forecast 5% increase in 2025.
Older benchmark (around 2008): ~82,000 metric tons annually, with ~31% Cheddar and ~20% Gouda.
In 2018, South Africa accounted for a significant share of Africa’s cow milk cheese output (Africa total: ~405,000 tonnes, led by Egypt and South Africa).
The dairy industry (of which cheese is a key processed product) is South Africa’s fourth-largest agricultural sector, valued at around R25 billion (~US$1.3 billion) in 2023. There are roughly 12 major modern cheese factories producing the bulk of output, alongside smaller operations.
Key production areas include the Western Cape, Eastern Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal, which benefit from milder climates and better pasture.
Popular Cheese Types and Artisanal Growth
Main commercial varieties:
Cheddar (largest share)
Gouda
Mozzarella
Feta, cream cheese, and others
A thriving artisanal scene has emerged since the 1990s, with small producers creating high-quality, award-winning cheeses that rival European ones. Many use raw milk and focus on traditional methods adapted to local conditions.
South Africa hosts cheese championships and supports farm shops, markets, and direct sales. Cheese-making courses and kits have also boosted home and small-scale production.
Challenges and Outlook
The industry faces consolidation (fewer but larger producers), high feed costs, droughts, diseases like Foot-and-Mouth, and competition from imports (especially luxury cheeses from the EU). However, rising consumer demand, urbanization, and premiumization support growth. Exports focus on the Southern African region, with potential expansion to China. Domestic consumption is rising with improving economic conditions. The market value is projected to grow steadily.
South Africa’s cheese sector offers a rich mix of reliable commercial staples and exciting artisanal options, deeply rooted in history but evolving with innovation and quality focus. For visitors or locals, exploring farm cheeseries in the Cape Winelands or Karoo provides a rewarding experience.
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