Introduction – Austria’s Cheese Market in Statistical Focus
When you think of Austria, charming alpine villages and classical music might come to mind—but don’t forget the cheese. Austria’s cheese industry is no small player in the global dairy game. It’s a vital part of the country’s agricultural backbone and a growing force in international trade.
Let’s break down the stats. In 2023, Austria produced around 280,000 metric tons of cheese, a figure that speaks volumes about the country’s dairy expertise. Even more impressive? It exported 67.28 million kilograms of cheese, raking in $483.53 million USD. Germany alone accounted for over 71% of that, proving that Austrian cheese has strong pulling power in neighboring markets.
Globally, Austria holds a 2.11% share in cheese exports, ranking 14th worldwide. With industry forecasts predicting production to climb to 305.5 thousand metric tons by 2028, there’s a clear upward trend. Hard cheese, in particular, is on the rise, expected to grow from 49.9 to 54.43 thousand metric tons in the same period.
But with all this growth, how do businesses choose the right suppliers? That’s where platforms like Freshdi come into play. They help buyers make smarter decisions by offering market insights, supplier reviews, and real-time data on RFQs (Request for Quotations).
Deep Dive – Key Production, Export Statistics & Current Demand Data
Austria’s cheese production isn’t just about volume—it’s about quality and consistency. The country’s dairy farms, nestled in pristine alpine regions, supply fresh milk to hundreds of cheese producers. This synergy results in high-quality products that are both artisan and industrial in scale.
Here’s a snapshot of the 2023 figures:
– Cheese Production: 280,000 metric tons
– Cheese Exports: 67.28 million kilograms
– Export Value: $483.53 million USD
– Top Export Market: Germany ($315.42 million USD)
– Other Key Markets: Italy (6.51%), Greece (4.03%), United States (2.60%)
Germany’s dominance as a trading partner isn’t surprising given proximity and taste profiles. But what’s interesting is the emerging demand from non-EU buyers like the U.S. This signifies broader appeal and opens up opportunities for new trade relationships.
On Freshdi, RFQ volumes for Austrian cheese reflect these trends. Categories like mozzarella for pizza, shredded cheese, and hard cheeses are frequently requested, especially by buyers in the Middle East and North America. This demand data helps suppliers stay ahead and helps buyers find the best match for their needs.
Top 7 Verified Cheese Suppliers in Austria – Leading Exporters by Volume
Now let’s get to the cheese of the matter—the top 7 cheese suppliers in Austria for 2025. These aren’t just random picks. They’ve been vetted based on export performance, global reach, certifications, and buyer feedback on Freshdi.
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Kovacic Helga
Known for its artisanal approach, Kovacic Helga offers a selection of traditional Austrian cheeses made with high-quality milk. Their exports have seen a steady rise, particularly in niche markets seeking authentic European flavors. -
MATTES KG
A strong player in both local and international markets, MATTES KG specializes in bulk cheese shipments. Their consistent quality and scalable production make them a favorite among food service distributors. -
OZMEN & CO KG
If you’re looking for frozen shredded mozzarella, this is your go-to supplier. Their product is particularly popular with pizzerias and food manufacturers across Europe and the Middle East. -
AGRI Trade Commodities GmbH
They focus on mozzarella for pizza applications, with a strong distribution network and competitive pricing. Their consistent RFQ wins on Freshdi highlight their reliability. -
Laka Trade OG
Offering a wide range including Edam and Cheddar, Laka Trade OG appeals to international buyers looking for variety and volume. They’re also known for seasonal discounts. -
PROAGRO GMBH
Specializing in cottage cheese powder and other processed variants, PROAGRO GMBH caters to the industrial and food manufacturing sectors. -
WIESENHOF Käserei GmbH (Hypothetical Placement)
Though traditionally a local favorite, this supplier has recently expanded its exports, focusing on hard cheeses and organic varieties. Their Freshdi profile shows increasing buyer interest in 2025.
Dynamic Ranking Note: Platforms like Freshdi offer real-time, dynamic rankings like “Supplier of the Month” or “Top Export Performer,” based on recent buyer activity, feedback, and order volumes. So be sure to check regularly for the latest updates.
Market Navigation – Statistical Trends, Price Insights & Export Dynamics
Navigating Austria’s cheese market isn’t just about finding a good supplier—it’s about understanding the trends. For example, there’s been a noticeable uptick in demand for:
– Mozzarella (especially frozen and shredded)
– Hard cheeses like Emmental and Bergkäse
– Organic and lactose-free varieties
– Cheese powders for industrial use
Seasonal price shifts also play a role. During Q2 and Q4, prices often spike due to festive demand in Europe and import surges from the Gulf and Asia. Smart buyers watch historical pricing and time their orders accordingly.
Freshdi helps decode these patterns with export data and RFQ trends. For instance, if mozzarella RFQs rise by 20% in Q1, it’s a signal that buyers are preparing for summer demand—especially in the food service sector.
Conclusion – Leveraging Data for Strategic Sourcing
Austria’s cheese industry is clearly on the rise, with strong production stats, reliable suppliers, and a growing global footprint. Whether you’re sourcing mozzarella for pizza chains or hard cheese for gourmet markets, Austria offers both quality and scale.
But here’s the kicker: not all suppliers are created equal. That’s why a data-driven approach is critical. Use platforms like Freshdi to:
– Review supplier certification and performance
– Analyze RFQ trends by region and cheese type
– Compare seasonal price fluctuations
– Access verified buyer reviews
In today’s fast-moving global market, smart sourcing isn’t just about price—it’s about insight.
Key Takeaways
- Austria produced 280,000 metric tons of cheese in 2023.
- It exported over 67 million kilograms worth $483.53 million USD.
- Germany is the top buyer, accounting for 71% of exports.
- Top suppliers include Kovacic Helga, MATTES KG, and OZMEN & CO KG.
- Mozzarella, hard cheese, and cheese powders are in high demand.
- Platforms like Freshdi streamline sourcing with verified data and trends.
Cheese Buyer’s Checklist – Austria Edition
✅ Define the required cheese type (e.g., mozzarella, hard, cottage)
✅ Identify peak demand seasons and plan purchases accordingly
✅ Verify supplier certifications and export history on Freshdi
✅ Compare dynamic rankings and buyer reviews
✅ Track RFQ trends for insight into market demand
Future Outlook – What’s Next for Austrian Cheese?
The outlook is bright. With projected growth in both production and export value, Austria is set to strengthen its position in the global cheese market. Diversification into organic and specialty cheeses is also opening doors in premium markets.
Additionally, the ripple effect of industry moves—like Lactalis acquiring BMI assets in Germany—could further integrate Austrian suppliers into global supply chains.
With tools like Freshdi, buyers can stay one step ahead, tapping into real-time insights and making smarter purchasing decisions.
FAQs
1. Which countries import the most cheese from Austria?
Germany is the largest importer, followed by Italy, Greece, and the United States.
2. What types of cheese are most exported by Austria?
Mozzarella, hard cheeses like Emmental, and processed cheese powders are among the top exports.
3. How can I verify an Austrian cheese supplier?
Use platforms like Freshdi to verify certifications, export data, and buyer feedback.
4. Are Austrian cheese prices stable year-round?
Not exactly—prices fluctuate seasonally, especially during holidays and high-demand periods.
5. What’s the advantage of sourcing cheese from Austria?
Consistent quality, strong food safety standards, and a growing pool of export-ready suppliers make Austria a reliable choice.
References
- ReportLinker – Austria Cheese Production Data
- WITS – Austria Cheese Export Data
- Tridge – Global Cheese Export Share
- DairyNews.today – Market Developments
- Freshdi – B2B Cheese Sourcing Platform
