Germany's medium hard cheese production exhibited modest fluctuations from 2013 to 2022. Production ranged from a low of approximately 676.92 thousand metric tons in 2016 to a peak of 732.73 thousand metric tons in 2021. The period saw minor year-on-year changes until 2019 when significant growth commenced, peaking in 2021 before a slight decline in 2022. Notably, 2023 experienced a stark reduction to 536.06 thousand metric tons, marking a substantial 26.04% year-on-year decrease. The average annual growth rate (CAGR) over the last five years was -4.83%, indicating a negative trend.
Forecasts for 2024 to 2028 predict a continued downturn in production, with annual volumes expected to decline from 522.81 thousand metric tons in 2024 to 471.14 thousand metric tons by 2028. The forecasted 5-year CAGR is -2.06%, or a total decline of 9.88% by 2028.
Future trends to watch include:
- Market dynamics affecting dairy consumption in Germany
- Potential shifts in export and import balances impacting cheese production
- Impact of plant-based cheese alternatives on traditional cheese markets
- Technological advancements in cheese production efficiency
