2026 represents a strategic year for the export of Italian cheeses to Asia, with rapidly growing demand in the Chinese and Japanese markets for premium products such as Parmigiano Reggiano PDO.
In this context, Intergrana has reached an important milestone, entering both markets with its single-serve portions of Parmigiano Reggiano, a format increasingly appreciated in the food service sector and international distribution.
Thanks to a long preparation process and strict regulatory compliance, the company is now ready to bring the excellence of Italian PDO cheeses to Asian markets.
Growing Demand for Italian Cheeses in Asia
In recent years, the demand for Italian cheeses in Asia has grown significantly, driven by the spread of Western cuisine and increasing interest in high-quality imported products.
The Japanese Market
Japan is one of the most mature and attractive markets for the Italian dairy sector.
In 2024:
- Italian cheese exports reached around 12,700 tonnes
- with a value exceeding €107 million
Among the most appreciated products are Parmigiano Reggiano and Grana Padano, widely recognized as symbols of Italian culinary tradition.
The Chinese Market
China is also showing strong interest in European aged cheeses.
After a temporary slowdown, the market is experiencing renewed growth thanks to:
- reduced tariffs on European cheeses
- the increasing popularity of Western cuisine in major cities
- growing demand for premium imported products
In both countries, Italian PDO aged cheeses are perceived as premium products that represent authenticity, quality and the excellence of Made in Italy.
Intergrana Ready to Export to China and Japan
To seize the opportunities offered by Asian markets, Intergrana has invested in a significant export preparation process over the past years.
The company has worked to:
- complete all bureaucratic procedures required for food exports
- obtain registrations and certifications required by Chinese and Japanese authorities
- adapt production processes to the strictest international food safety standards
- guarantee full traceability and quality across the entire supply chain
This work has allowed Intergrana to enter 2026 fully prepared to operate in Asian markets.
Single-Serve Parmigiano Reggiano Opens New Market Opportunities
In the first months of 2026, Intergrana has already achieved concrete results, successfully entering the markets of China and Japan.
The flagship product of this expansion is single-serve Parmigiano Reggiano, a format particularly appreciated in international markets.
Key advantages include:
- ease of use
- improved hygienic safety
- precise portion control
- easier distribution
These features make single-serve portions ideal for the HoReCa sector, travel catering and international distribution, helping Parmigiano Reggiano reach even the most distant markets.
Bringing the Excellence of Italian Cheese to the World
Entering the markets of China and Japan represents an important step in Intergrana’s international growth strategy.
The combination of:
- Italian cheesemaking tradition
- innovative packaging solutions
- rigorous quality standards
allows the company to enhance the value of Parmigiano Reggiano PDO in global markets.
With this expansion, Intergrana confirms its commitment to bringing the excellence of Italian cheeses to new consumers around the world.
