Background on the Importance of Cheese in Mexico
Mexico is poised to reach a new high in cheese imports, with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) projecting that the country will import a record 210,000 metric tonnes in 2026. This represents a 7.7% increase from the previous year, reflecting Mexico’s economic recovery, booming tourism, and growing consumer demand.
Impact of Tourism on Cheese Imports
The rise in cheese imports will complement the increase in domestic production, as tourists from the United States and Europe seek familiar flavors and a wider variety of cheeses not typically found in national production. These international visitors, especially those traveling to popular destinations like Cancún, Guadalajara, and Mexico City, drive demand for international cuisine and specialty cheeses in hotels, restaurants, and tourist complexes.
Domestic Demand and Production
Meanwhile, Mexico’s strong internal demand for cheese, particularly from the growing food industry and packaged food manufacturers, encourages local processors to modernize their cheese production facilities. By importing affordable dairy components, such as skimmed milk powder, and using them in domestic production, processors can reduce the cost of raw materials for processed cheeses like imitation mozzarella for the food industry.
Mexico’s Cheese Export Projections
The USDA also forecasts an 80% increase in Mexican cheese exports to 9,000 metric tonnes in 2026. This suggests a strong reversal of the decline observed in 2025, as Mexico invests in its dairy industry for eventual global market presence. Although initial investments have redirected production to the domestic market, modernized and expanded cheese production facilities are expected to be fully operational by 2026, generating substantial export surpluses alongside meeting growing internal demand.
Cheese Consumption in Mexico
The USDA projects that Mexico’s cheese consumption will reach 696,000 metric tonnes in 2026, a 3% increase. This growth is attributed to urbanization and rising purchasing power among the expanding middle class.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the projected cheese import record for Mexico in 2026? The USDA projects that Mexico will import a record 210,000 metric tonnes of cheese in 2026.
- How will tourism impact cheese imports? Tourists, especially those from the US and Europe, seek familiar flavors and a wider variety of cheeses, driving demand for international cuisine and specialty cheeses in popular tourist destinations.
- What factors are driving domestic cheese demand in Mexico? The growing food industry and packaged food manufacturers contribute to strong internal demand for cheese, encouraging local processors to modernize and reduce production costs.
- What are Mexico’s cheese export projections for 2026? The USDA forecasts an 80% increase in Mexican cheese exports to 9,000 metric tonnes in 2026.
- What is the expected growth in Mexico’s cheese consumption? The USDA projects a 3% increase in Mexico’s cheese consumption to 696,000 metric tonnes in 2026.
