+41% in a month: Ukraine has sharply increased its imports of dairy products
26 June 12:14
The Ukrainian dairy industry must transition from exporting raw materials to producing high-value-added products. Without investment in value-added processing and modern technologies, the country risks losing its competitive advantages even in traditional export markets.
This is stated in an analytical report by the Association of Milk Producers, according to
According to the State Statistics Service, in May 2026 , Ukraine exported 10.93 thousand metric tons of dairy products worth $32.89 million.
The largest share of exports consisted of:
- condensed milk and cream — 31%;
- ice cream — 26%;
- cheese — 18%;
- butter — 8%;
- casein — 6%;
- whey — 6%.
Experts emphasize that the structure of Ukrainian exports remains insufficiently efficient, as the main export commodities are still dry milk and butter—products with relatively low added value.
The situation on the global market poses an additional challenge for producers. Due to logistical complications related to the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, butter is piling up in warehouses both in European countries and in Ukraine.
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Despite the current difficulties, long-term forecasts remain positive. By 2035, global demand for butter could grow by 30%, for dry milk by 65%, and for dairy ingredients by more than threefold.
At the same time, Ukraine is increasing its imports of dairy products. In May 2026, 7.92 thousand metric tons of dairy products were imported into the country, a 41% increase compared to April.
Experts believe that the development of high-value-added products will be key to strengthening the Ukrainian dairy industry’s position in global markets.
As reported by "Komersant Ukrainian", Ukrainian milk is no longer competing with Poland, but with the United States and New Zealand.
