A predicted increase in North American cheese consumption is opening up new export opportunities for UK dairy and red meat producers, according to new analysis.
Cheese consumption across North America is expected to increase by an average of 11% by 2034, with tax body AHDB identifying dairy products as the sector most likely to benefit from increased demand.
The latest outlook for UK agricultural exports: North America ratings show that British artisan cheese is well placed to meet consumers’ desire for a premium product that is recognized as offering value for its quality.
The broader export situation remained positive throughout 2025. UK dairy shipments totaled more than £1.6 billion, higher than the previous year’s total.
Opportunities are also identified for UK red meat exporters, supported by above-world average consumption levels in both the US and Canada.
Growth in US sheepmeat consumption is expected to be modest at around 1% over the next decade, but predicted increases in pork and beef consumption in Mexico could create further opportunities for UK exporters.
For producers, the outlook signals continued long-term demand for high-end, well-branded British dairy and red meat products.
AHDB International Trade Development Director Jonathan Eckley said export support was at the heart of the organization’s work with levy payers. “Support for our country’s red meat and dairy export trade forms one of the cornerstones of AHDB’s work on behalf of levy payers,” he said.
He said market intelligence underpins AHDB’s activities. He said: “Market insights play a key role in shaping our strategy to support levy payers through on-the-ground activities, such as internal and external trade missions and participation at major trade shows.”
Eckley said the outlook for North America is positive. “Our latest analysis for North America is encouraging and highlights the long-term opportunity for premium red meat and dairy products in the region,” he said.
Recent trade developments have also strengthened the position of UK exporters. “Our beef exporters can now benefit from the Economic Prosperity Agreement (EPD) with the United States, allowing them to ship 13,000 tonnes of beef duty-free to this high-value market,” Eckley said.
He added that provenance could play an important role. “The heritage and provenance of British produce can also serve as an important selling point for U.S. consumers, particularly in the case of territorial dairy products such as stilton and cheddar, and our exporters could potentially take advantage of that,” he said.
The latest outlook comes as AHDB and 13 British dairy exporters take part in the fourth annual British Cheese Night event in San Diego.
The event attracted approximately 130 industry buyers and was designed to generate new leads for exporters while strengthening relationships with existing customers.
Lucy Randolph, head of international trade development (dairy) at AHDB, said the US remained an important destination for British dairy products. “The US is the UK’s second largest dairy export market,” she said.
He added: “Our dairy exports have an established reputation in the US market, thanks to the promotional efforts of our market manager, Mr. Victor Willis.”
Randolph said continued promotion is essential to future growth. “The latest AHDB analysis highlights strong opportunities for cheese export growth in this important market,” she said.
“Events like British Cheese Night in San Diego are therefore essential to ensuring our world-class produce is showcased to buyers and building our strong foothold in the U.S. market.”
AHDB said the findings will help shape future trade activities in North America, including promoting UK dairy and red meat exports and engaging buyers.
