US cheese suppliers see growing opportunities in Phli

The USA Cheese Guild is expanding its training and industry engagement efforts in the country as part of its campaign to strengthen its share in the domestic cheese market.

- By JASPER EMMANUEL ARCALAS:

The USA Cheese Guild said the Philippines has become one of the most important growth markets for American agriculture products, including cheese, in Asia.

The group pointed out that US cheese exports to the Philippines rose by 24 percent year-on-year in 2024, reflecting the growing demand for the commodity among Filipino consumers, chefs and food operators. The group did not disclose the actual export figures.

“Fresh cheeses, led primarily by cream cheese, account for a major share of US exports to the Philippines, while other American varieties such as white cheddar, sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack are steadily gaining traction,” the group said.

Citing a recent research by the US Dairy Export Council (USDEC), the USA Cheese Guild said that cheese is consumed almost “universally” or 99 percent by middleto high-income urban consumers in the Philippines.