HS Code:
Blue-mold cheese and cheese substitutes containing or processed from blue-mold cheese (HS Code: 0406.40) include varieties such as Roquefort, Gorgonzola, and Stilton. These cheeses are characterized by the presence of blue or green veins resulting from the growth of Penicillium mold. This category is a niche but significant segment of the global cheese market, often associated with premium and artisanal products. The trade of blue-mold cheese reflects consumer demand for specialty dairy products, with a focus on quality, origin, and traditional production methods.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $1.2 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and International Trade Centre (ITC)
$450 million USD
37.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$300 million USD
25.0% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$150 million USD
12.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$100 million USD
8.3% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$80 million USD
6.7% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
15% ad valorem
Highest Rate
35% (applied by some developing countries to protect local dairy industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as EU-USMCA and EU-Japan EPA)
Growing demand for artisanal and specialty cheeses
Increased exports from traditional producers like France and Italy as consumers in North America and Asia seek premium products
2020-2022
Rising popularity of plant-based cheese substitutes
Moderate competition for traditional blue-mold cheese as vegan alternatives gain traction in urban markets
2021-2023
Sustainability and ethical production concerns
Pressure on producers to adopt environmentally friendly practices, influencing production costs and trade dynamics
2019-2022
The European Union and the United States reached a temporary agreement to reduce tariffs on specialty cheeses, including blue-mold varieties, to boost trade post-Brexit and amidst global supply chain disruptions.
March 2023
Expected to increase EU exports to the US by 10-15% over the next two years, benefiting countries like France and Italy.
Several Asia-Pacific countries, including Japan and South Korea, have introduced stricter sanitary regulations for imported dairy, requiring additional certifications for blue-mold cheese.
January 2023
Temporary slowdown in exports to these regions as producers adapt to compliance requirements, potentially increasing costs.
A renewed push by the EU to enforce GI protections for Roquefort has led to tensions with non-EU producers using similar names, affecting trade negotiations.
September 2022
Strengthens market position for French producers but may limit market access for imitation products from other regions.