India, April 20 -- Imports of Cheese from the USA into Southeast Asia have surged over the past year, rising 43% in volume to reach USD 106 million in value. This growth reflects the regions growing appetite for cheese. Notably, grated and powdered cheeses recorded the highest growth at 77% year-on-year, underscoring strong demand from the foodservice sector.1
This momentum is reflected by consumer preferences across the region. According to USDECs custom consumption tracker for Southeast Asia, cheese is widely consumed among mid- to high-income consumers with 9 in 10 respondents stating they have eaten cheese in the past 12 months, whether through retail or foodservice. Across both categories, taste and enjoyment are the primary drivers of consumption2.
These trends signal significant opportunities in menu innovation for chefs and restaurant operators. As more cheese-based recipes go viral on social media, consumers awareness of cheese continues to expand, transforming it from a supporting ingredient into a foundation for creativity.
The U.S. Dairy Export Council remains committed to supporting the region with high-quality, versatile dairy solutions. Through Cheese from the USA, we are empowering chefs to push boundaries, rethink familiar formats, and shape the future of culinary innovation in Southeast Asia, said Dali Ghazalay, Regional Director - Southeast Asia, USDEC SEA.
Supporting the needs of the foodservice sector
Once considered primarily a Western staple, cheese is now firmly embedded in Southeast Asias dynamic food culture. From modern interpretations of local dishes to bold fusion concepts, chefs are leveraging the versatility and premium appeal of cheese to deliver flavours that resonate with todays discerning diners.
Against this backdrop, USA Cheeses are gaining recognition as a preferred choice for chefs and foodservice operators. With a wide range of varieties and formats, Cheese from the USA offers diversity and flexibility needed to meet evolving menu demands and operational requirements.
A key differentiator lies in its functional performance. USA Cheeses are known for their reliable meltability, stability across cooking conditions, and consistent texture, enabling chefs to execute dishes with confidence, even when operating at scale. These attributes not only support creativity in the kitchen but also enhance efficiency, helping businesses deliver consistent quality with each refreshed concept.
Backed by a strong foundation of quality, safety, and sustainability, USA Cheeses are produced under stringent food safety standards and supported by a reliable global supply chain, providing foodservice operators with the assurance they need in a fast-moving market.
Menu innovation today is about pushing boundaries while maintaining consistency. Whether its reinterpreting local dishes or creating new fusion concepts, USA Cheeses give chefs the freedom to experiment, thanks to their versatility, wide variety, and dependable performance in the kitchen, Chef Muhammad Imran, Chef Consultant, USDEC, elaborated.
Explore USA Cheeses at FHA 2026
The U.S. Dairy Export Council will once again showcase the variety and superior quality of USA Cheeses at the Food and Hospitality Asia 2026. With a focus on highlighting how its portfolio can support the next wave of foodservice innovation in Southeast Asia, visitors can engage with suppliers and USDECs chef consultant to gain insights into emerging trends, explore new applications and experience firsthand how USA Cheeses is enabling chefs to push culinary boundaries.
This year, the USA Cheese & Dairy Pavilion will host seven dairy suppliers3, including SJ Global, Dairy Trade, and Ronald A. Chisholm, who will be introducing their portfolio of cheese and dairy products for the first time. Other suppliers are Dairy Farmers of America, Commercial Creamery Company, Orange Cheese Company and Schreiber Foods Inc.
As Southeast Asias foodservice sector continues to evolve, USA Cheeses remains committed to supporting its growth by empowering chefs, inspiring innovation, and delivering quality ingredients that meet the needs of a rapidly changing market.
Food & Hospitality Asia (FHA) 2026 is taking place at the Singapore Expo from April 21 24. Meet with U.S. cheese suppliers at booth #7D4-01.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from FoodTechBiz.