HS Code:
Bryndza cheese is a traditional sheep milk cheese primarily produced in Central and Eastern Europe, particularly in Slovakia, Romania, and Poland. It falls under the broader category of dairy products in the Harmonized System (HS) Code 0406, which covers cheese and curd. Bryndza is known for its creamy texture and strong, tangy flavor, often used in traditional dishes like bryndzové halušky. The production and trade of Bryndza are influenced by regional agricultural practices, cultural significance, and strict geographical indication protections in the European Union.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $50 million USD
Data from 2022
Source
Data compiled from UN Comtrade and national trade statistics
$20 million USD
40% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$15 million USD
30% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$10 million USD
20% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$3 million USD
6% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$2 million USD
4% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
15% ad valorem
Highest Rate
35% (applied by some non-EU countries on dairy imports)
Lowest Rate
0% (within EU under single market rules)
Growing demand for authentic and traditional foods
Increased exports of Bryndza to Western Europe and North America as consumers seek niche, artisanal products
2021-2022
Sustainability focus in dairy production
Shift towards organic and eco-friendly production methods, influencing Bryndza’s market positioning and pricing
2020-2022
Impact of EU dairy regulations
Stricter quality controls and GI protections have limited counterfeit products but increased compliance costs for producers
2019-2022
Slovak Bryndza received broader GI protection under EU law, ensuring only cheese produced in specific regions can be labeled as Bryndza.
March 2022
Boosted export authenticity and pricing power for Slovak producers while limiting competition from non-GI regions.
Under the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), EU dairy products including Bryndza gained better market access to Canada with reduced tariffs.
September 2021
Increased export opportunities for Bryndza producers to North America, with a projected 5% growth in trade volume.
Post-COVID supply chain issues and the Ukraine conflict have impacted sheep milk availability and transportation costs in Eastern Europe.
Early 2022
Temporary reduction in production and export volumes, particularly affecting smaller producers.