HS Code:
The category 'Containing, or processed from, Edam or Gouda cheese' refers to products that include or are derived from these specific types of semi-hard cheeses originating from the Netherlands. Edam and Gouda are popular globally for their mild flavors and versatility in culinary applications, often used in processed cheese products, snacks, and ready-to-eat meals. This category falls under the Harmonized System (HS) Code related to dairy products, typically within the 0406 chapter for cheese and curd. Trade in this category is influenced by factors such as dairy production capacity, consumer demand for cheese-based products, and international trade agreements specific to dairy goods.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $2.5 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
International Trade Centre (ITC) Trade Map and UN Comtrade Database
$1.2 billion USD
48% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$500 million USD
20% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$300 million USD
12% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$200 million USD
8% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$150 million USD
6% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
15% ad valorem
Highest Rate
35% (imposed by certain developing countries with protective dairy policies)
Lowest Rate
0% (under EU free trade agreements and specific bilateral deals)
Growing demand for processed cheese products in Asia-Pacific
Increased export opportunities for major producers like the Netherlands and Germany, with a focus on convenient and shelf-stable cheese products
2021-2023
Shift towards sustainable and organic cheese production
Higher production costs but growing niche markets in Europe and North America willing to pay premium prices
2020-2022
Impact of trade agreements like EU-Japan EPA
Reduced tariffs and increased market access for European Edam and Gouda products in Japan, boosting trade volumes
2019-2023
Following Brexit, the EU has redirected significant volumes of Edam and Gouda cheese exports to non-UK markets, with increased focus on Asia and the Middle East.
January 2023
Diversification of export markets for European producers, reducing dependency on traditional UK demand.
The US proposed additional tariffs on EU dairy products, including processed Edam and Gouda, as part of ongoing trade disputes over subsidies.
October 2022
Potential reduction in US market share for European exporters if tariffs are implemented, prompting a search for alternative markets.
Major Dutch dairy companies have invested in new processing facilities to meet growing global demand for Gouda-based products.
March 2023
Strengthens the Netherlands' position as the leading exporter, potentially increasing trade volume by 10% in the next two years.