Export of dairy products under pressure from EU quotas and falling butter prices

The restoration of tariff quotas between the EU and Ukraine and the significant drop in prices for exchange goods have led to a sharp reduction in the export of dairy products by Ukrainian companies. At the same time, the import of cheeses from Europe is increasing.

According to preliminary data from the State Statistics Service of Ukraine, in June 2026, 11.53 thousand tons of dairy products were exported worth $35.06 million. Natural export volumes decreased by 23%, and monetary revenue fell by 31% compared to May 2026. Compared to June 2025, natural export volumes decreased by 7%, and monetary revenue decreased by 23%. In January-June 2026, Ukraine exported 63.78 thousand tons (-10%) of dairy products worth $180.87 million (-20%). The main export categories were the following products: Ice cream - 28%; Milk and cream, condensed - 26%; Cheese - 14%; Butter - 10%; Casein - 8%. In June 2026, Ukraine increased natural export volumes of unsweetened milk and cream to 1.26 thousand tons (+6%), fermented milk products to 656 tons (+31%), and ice cream to 2.7 thousand tons (+21%), but reduced supplies of other dairy products, including butter to 649 tons (-78%) and cheese to 1.08 thousand tons (-16%) compared to May 2026. Compared to June 2025, ...