Swiss cheese exports increased by 4.5% last year compared to 2018. In total, 75,877 tonnes (+3,282 tonnes) left the country for CHF 667.6 million. Imports increased 2.8% to 64,129 tonnes.
About 45% of Swiss milk is processed into more than 700 cheese specialties, recalls Friday Switzerland Cheese Marketing in a press release. Some 40% of this volume is exported to more than 70 countries. Europe represents the main market for Swiss cheese with more than 80% of the quantities exported.
Germany imports a good half of the total volume exported to the European Union. Italy and France follow. The 7% increase in these markets pleases the sector. Exports outside Europe, however, fell by 458 tonnes (–3.2%) to 14,053 tonnes. These markets have been somewhat weakened by global uncertainty due to trade disputes.
Food and catering industry
Imported foreign cheeses are 30% cheaper than their Swiss cousins. In 2019, imported volumes increased by 2.8%, but this increase is less in comparison with 2018. The lion’s share (82%) comes from Italy (22,817 tonnes). Germany and France follow. Much of the imports are used by the price-sensitive food industry as well as the catering industry.
(Ps / nxp)
Created: 01.31.2020, 12.58 p.m.
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