In March 2026, Ukraine exported 12,430 metric tons of dairy products worth $35.38 million, which is 25.1% more in volume than in February and 44% more in revenue, according to the Association of Milk Producers (AMP), citing data from the State Statistics Service.
As noted by the industry association, exports by volume increased by only 1% compared to March 2025, while revenue decreased by 7%.
In total, in the first quarter of 2026, the country exported 30,560 tons of dairy products (-2%) worth $81.46 million (-9%) to foreign markets. In March, the key products were condensed milk and cream (25% of exports), cheese (17%), butter (15%), and casein (15%).
ABM analysts attribute the increase in shipments in March to the war in the Middle East and the logistical collapse in Iran, which had been a major competitor to Ukraine in the markets of Iraq, the Persian Gulf countries, and Central Asia. Due to disruptions in Iranian exports, buyers began returning to Ukrainian suppliers, whose product prices are currently nearly identical.
In March 2026, compared to February, Ukraine increased exports of condensed milk to 3,600 tons (+20%), whey to 1,710 tons (+24%), cheese to 1,320 tons (+14%), and ice cream to 1,370 tons (+96%). However, shipments of non-condensed milk fell to 2,010 tons (-10%). Revenue from condensed milk rose to $8.92 million, and from cheese to $6.15 million.
“Increased supply of raw materials and weak domestic demand are forcing processors to expand more actively into foreign markets. Despite quotas, the EU’s share of export revenue reached 36%. In particular, Germany has become a strategic market for casein and fresh cheeses under private label, while Poland, in addition to importing into Ukraine, is actively purchasing our butter and dry whey,” the association noted.
Against the backdrop of rising exports, imports are intensifying pressure on the domestic market. In January–March, Ukraine imported 16,950 tons of dairy products (+10%) worth $83.18 million, with cheese accounting for 63%. Experts warned that the surplus of European cheeses being redirected from China poses a threat to domestic cheese producers and could lead to a drop in milk purchase prices in Ukraine.
The foreign trade balance in the first quarter of 2026 remained negative at -$1.72 million.
To stabilize the situation, the industry association is insisting on the introduction of state protective measures against uncontrolled imports from the EU.
