Cheese Import Canada 2026 Market Overview & Trends

Canada's cheese import market has demonstrated consistent and rapid growth over the last five years. Between 2020 and 2024, the import value surged from $9.1 million to over $34.2 million, while total quantity more than tripled from 1.96 million to 6.57 million units, indicating a strong and accelerating demand for imported dairy products.

In 2024, the United States emerged as the primary supplier to Canada, accounting for a dominant $23.09 million in export value. European nations, led by the Netherlands ($4.07 million), Italy ($2.63 million), and France ($2.32 million), maintain a significant but secondary market share, followed by Turkey as a notable emerging supplier.

Emerging trade partners are showing extraordinary momentum, particularly the Netherlands and Germany, which recorded massive growth rates in 2024. While Spain and Mexico maintain steady growth, the explosive scaling of Dutch exports to $4.07 million signals a major shift in the competitive landscape and sourcing preferences.

The trade is concentrated in HS Code 040610, which covers fresh cheese (including whey cheese) and curd. In 2024, this specific category reached a total value of $34.28 million, confirming that fresh, non-fermented varieties are the primary driver of Canada's cheese import volumes.