Ukraine sees record surge in cheese imports — Dairy Union

In the first half of August, Ukraine’s imports of dairy products rose to $14.7 million, the Union of Dairy Enterprises of Ukraine (UNIC) reported. This marks the highest level since the beginning of the year, surpassing the previous record of $13.2 million set in the first half of March.

In monetary terms, imports increased by 30% compared with the first half of July and by nearly 1.5 times compared with the first half of June.

According to UNIC, import volumes grew across almost all product categories, except for whey, which declined by one-third. The largest increase was recorded in the cheese segment, up 25%, with more than 1,800 tons brought into the country. Cheese accounted for almost 85% of the total value of dairy imports.

As a result, in the first half of August, the trade balance for dairy products turned negative for the first time since March, amounting to –$4.3 million.

“UNIC analysts believe that this sharp increase in imports was largely driven by rising domestic raw milk prices in Ukraine, which went up by 5% in late July and continued to rise in August. This partly reduced the competitiveness of domestic products, making imports more attractive,” the statement reads.

This trend, the union added, affects the country’s balance of payments and calls for a more balanced approach to dairy pricing on the domestic market.

For reference, in January–July 2025:

• Dairy exports from Ukraine increased by 70% y/y to $199.3 million,

• Imports rose by 15% to $172 million,

• The trade surplus reached $27.3 million (compared with a deficit last year),

• Butter exports grew the most, up 3.1 times y/y.