The production of whole cow milk cheese in Belgium demonstrated significant growth over the past decade. From 54.5 thousand metric tons in 2013, it rose to 136.95 thousand metric tons in 2023, reflecting consistent upward momentum despite minor fluctuations such as a slight dip in 2020. Year-on-year variations fluctuated, with notable peaks in 2014 (47.94%) and steadier increases in recent years: 3.49% in 2022, and 3.31% in 2023. The average CAGR over the past five years stood at 3.71%, indicating a healthy growth trajectory.
Looking ahead, forecasted data suggests the production of whole cow milk cheese will continue to rise, reaching 159.85 thousand metric tons by 2028. This growth translates to a forecasted 5-year CAGR of 2.43% and an overall 12.76% growth rate over the next five years.
Future trends to watch for include:
- Technological advancements in cheese production and processing, which could enhance efficiency and output.
- Shifts in consumer preferences towards artisanal and organic cheese, potentially influencing production volumes and market dynamics.
- Regulatory changes impacting the dairy industry, such as environmental sustainability practices that could affect production processes.
- International trade policies and their impact on export opportunities for Belgian cheese.
