The European Union, the World's Largest Cheese Producer in 2024

According to data from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), global cheese production reached 22.55 million metric tons in 2024. This volume represents a slight increase of 0.89% compared to the 2023 production of 22.34 million metric tons.

The European Union was the largest producer, with a production volume of 10.7 million metric tons in 2024. This region, comprising 27 countries, has consistently been the leading global cheese producer since 2021.

In 2025, EU cheese production is predicted to stagnate at 10.75 million metric tons.

"Stable demand from domestic and international buyers continues to support cheese production despite a decline in EU milk supply," the USDA wrote in its report.

Below is a list of the top 10 countries with the highest national cheese production volumes in 2024:

1. European Union: 10.7 million metric tons

2. United States: 6.46 million metric tons

3. Russia: 1.16 million metric tons

4. Brazil: 775 thousand metric tons

5. Canada: 530 thousand metric tons

6. Argentina: 500 thousand metric tons

7. United Kingdom: 495 thousand metric tons

8. Mexico: 474 thousand metric tons

9. New Zealand: 410 thousand metric tons

10. Australia: 400 thousand metric tons