HS Code:
Dried whey, whether or not containing added sugar or other sweetening matter, classified under HS Code 0404.10.90, is a by-product of cheese production. It is primarily used as an ingredient in food processing, animal feed, and dietary supplements due to its high protein content and functional properties. This product category includes whey powder and other forms of dried whey that are not specifically modified or concentrated beyond standard drying processes. Global trade in dried whey is influenced by dairy production capacities, demand for protein-rich ingredients, and regional agricultural policies.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately 2.5 million metric tons
Data from 2022
Source
International Trade Centre (ITC) Trade Map and UN Comtrade Database
600,000 metric tons
24% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
550,000 metric tons
22% of total trade of total trade
Stable
400,000 metric tons
16% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
250,000 metric tons
10% of total trade of total trade
Stable
200,000 metric tons
8% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
5.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
25% (applied by certain developing countries to protect local dairy industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as USMCA and EU-Japan EPA)
Rising demand for whey protein in sports nutrition and health supplements
Increased exports to markets in Asia-Pacific and North America, driving production in major exporting countries
2021-2023
Shift towards sustainable dairy practices
Exporters adopting eco-friendly production methods to meet regulatory and consumer demands, potentially increasing costs
2022-2023
Fluctuations in global milk prices
Affects the cost of whey production, influencing trade competitiveness of exporting nations
2020-2022
The European Union has seen a recovery in dairy exports, including dried whey, due to stabilized supply chains and increased demand from China for animal feed.
Mid-2022
Strengthened EU's position as a leading exporter, potentially increasing competition for other exporters like the US and New Zealand.
Under the Phase One trade deal, China reduced tariffs on US dairy products, including dried whey, boosting US exports to the Chinese market.
January 2020 (ongoing impact through 2023)
Significant growth in US trade volume to China, altering regional trade dynamics in Asia.
New Zealand announced investments in dairy processing technology to enhance whey drying capabilities and improve export quality.
Late 2022
Expected to increase export capacity and maintain competitive edge in quality and pricing.