Middle East & Africa Cheese Market Outlook, 2030

Market Dynamic

Market Drivers • Urbanization and Rising Disposable Incomes: The rapid urbanization in the Middle East and Africa, coupled with an increasing middle class, has driven a significant demand for processed and convenient food products, including cheese. As people move to urban areas, the availability of modern retail outlets, supermarkets, and online grocery services has increased, making cheese more accessible. This shift, combined with greater disposable incomes, has encouraged consumers to experiment with different cheese varieties and incorporate them into their daily diets. • Growing Influence of Western Diets: Western fast food and culinary trends have become more prominent in the Middle East and Africa, contributing to the growing demand for cheese. International food chains, like pizza and burger franchises, have popularized cheese as a key ingredient in local cuisine. Additionally, the expansion of global food trends such as gourmet burgers, sandwiches, and pasta dishes in the region has led to an increased consumption of cheese in both homes and eateries. Market Challenges • Cultural and Dietary Preferences: Despite the growing demand, cheese consumption faces challenges in certain areas of the Middle East and Africa due to cultural preferences. In some countries, traditional diets with limited use of dairy products can hinder the widespread acceptance of cheese. Additionally, some local consumers may still be hesitant to adopt cheese due to unfamiliarity with its variety and taste, preferring more familiar dairy products like yogurt and milk. • Supply Chain and Distribution Issues: The diverse geography of the Middle East and Africa, along with varying infrastructure quality across countries, can create challenges in efficiently distributing cheese. The need for refrigeration and temperature control during transportation and storage is critical to maintaining cheese quality, especially in hotter climates. In some regions, underdeveloped logistics networks or unreliable cold chain systems can result in spoilage, leading to supply disruptions and higher costs for both producers and consumers. Market Trends • Shift Toward Healthier Alternatives: The Middle East and Africa are seeing a growing trend toward health-conscious eating, and this has influenced the cheese market. Consumers are increasingly looking for options that cater to dietary needs such as lactose-free, low-fat, or plant-based cheeses. With a rising awareness of health issues like obesity and lactose intolerance, these alternatives are gaining traction as part of a broader shift toward cleaner, more sustainable diets. • Premium and Artisanal Cheese Demand: As the region’s taste profiles evolve, there is an increasing demand for high-quality, premium, and artisanal cheeses. Consumers, particularly in urban areas, are seeking out cheeses that offer unique flavors and textures, moving away from mass-produced varieties. This trend is fostering the growth of local cheese producers who are experimenting with new flavors, textures, and production methods to cater to a more discerning consumer base, while also tapping into the growing interest in specialty and gourmet food products.