Ukrainian producers of hard and semi-hard cheeses ended 2025 with a noticeable reduction in production. Despite the traditional increase in consumption on the eve of the holidays, domestic cheeses are increasingly replacing cheaper imported counterparts from Europe.

As market participants note, the supply of inexpensive imported cheese on the domestic market increased significantly at the end of the year. Sales of Ukrainian cheeses were supported mainly by promotions and discounts, which led to a reduction in producers' margins. Anticipating weaker demand in January 2026, enterprises have already begun to reduce production volumes at the end of the year.

At the end of the year, the output of hard and semi-hard cheeses decreased compared to 2024, which, according to analysts, reflects the trend of gradual displacement of part of domestic production by cheaper imported products. European cheese remains competitive in price, and market participants do not expect a significant reduction in imports next year.

The situation is complicated by the fact that Ukrainian cheeses, even during promotions, are often more expensive than imported counterparts. Producers have to either offer deep discounts, which reduces profitability, or limit production volumes. This forces some companies to look for alternatives in foreign markets, where prices are more attractive and allow them to maintain profitability.

At the same time, the processed cheese segment remains relatively stable. There is steady demand here, without sharp fluctuations in production, which makes this market one of the few balanced niches in the cheese sector of Ukraine.

Experts emphasize that to support domestic production, Ukrainian cheesemakers need additional incentives or the development of export channels, otherwise competitive pressure from the EU will continue to reduce the share of domestic products in the domestic market.