Global Halloumi Cheese Market: By Type, Nature, Flavor, Distribution Channel, Region - Market Size, Industry Dynamics, Opportunity Analysis and Forecast for 2025-2033

The global halloumi cheese market is poised for substantial growth, with its value expected to rise from approximately US$ 496.44 million in 2024 to an impressive US$ 1,034.51 million by 2033. This growth represents a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.5% during the forecast period spanning from 2025 to 2033. Several key factors are driving this expansion, making halloumi an increasingly popular choice among consumers worldwide.

One of the primary drivers behind the rising demand for halloumi cheese is its exceptional versatility in cooking. Its unique semi-hard texture and ability to retain shape when grilled or fried make it a favored ingredient in a wide array of dishes, from salads to sandwiches and appetizers. Furthermore, the growing popularity of Mediterranean diets, which emphasize fresh, wholesome, and balanced eating, is contributing significantly to halloumi's appeal. Additionally, halloumi is benefiting from the surge in plant-based and flexitarian diets, as it serves as a high-protein, meat-alternative option that fits well within these dietary preferences.

Noteworthy Market Developments

The halloumi cheese market is witnessing remarkable growth, with key players such as Nordex Food, Achnagal Dairies, Arla Foods, and Petrou Bros Dairy Products collectively capturing nearly 22% of the market share. These companies are strengthening their positions by leveraging robust supply chains and adopting innovative production techniques, enabling them to meet rising demand efficiently while maintaining high-quality standards. Their strategic investments in technology and distribution networks are crucial factors driving their success in this competitive landscape.

A significant development in the market occurred in July 2025, when Hellenic Dairies (Olympus) completed the acquisition of Dodoni from CVC Capital Partners and Vivartia. Valued at approximately €205 million, this deal created the largest dairy entity in the region. For the halloumi sector, the merger combines Dodoni's extensive export distribution network, spanning over 50 countries.

In addition to consolidation, sustainability and innovation are becoming key competitive strategies among leading halloumi producers. Achnagal Dairies has been proactively focusing on reducing its environmental impact by launching initiatives aimed at minimizing its carbon footprint. By optimizing energy consumption throughout their production processes, they are aligning with growing consumer and regulatory demands for sustainable food production.

Core Growth Drivers

The growing consumer demand for unique and authentic cheese experiences is a major driver behind the expansion of the global halloumi cheese market. As consumers become more adventurous and discerning in their food choices, there is an increasing appetite for products that offer distinctive flavors, textures, and cultural stories. Halloumi, with its rich heritage and unique semi-hard texture, fits perfectly into this trend, attracting food enthusiasts who seek not just nourishment but also a meaningful culinary experience.

Emerging Opportunity Trends

The evolution of the halloumi cheese market from a niche retail product to a foodservice staple has become unmistakably clear, with 42% of total exports now directed to the out-of-home dining sector. For the first time, halloumi's volume sold through foodservice channels has surpassed traditional retail block sales, marking a significant milestone in the product's market trajectory. This transformation is largely fueled by the widespread incorporation of halloumi into the regular menus of major Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) chains, where it has found a new identity and purpose.

Barriers to Optimization

One of the most concerning developments for the protectors of the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status in the halloumi cheese market is the rapid loss of market share in the DACH region-comprising Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. Here, non-PDO products labeled as "Grilling Cheese" have captured a significant 28% of the category, signaling a troubling shift for authentic halloumi producers. This trend highlights a breaking point in price sensitivity across continental Europe, where consumers are increasingly unwilling to pay premium prices for PDO-certified halloumi.

Detailed Market Segmentation

By Nature, Conventional production methods continue to dominate the halloumi cheese market, capturing approximately 70% of the total market share. This strong foothold is primarily due to the widespread use of accessible cow milk blends, which make production more scalable and cost-effective. Conventional techniques have been refined over time to meet large-scale demand while maintaining the characteristic qualities that define halloumi cheese.

By Flavor, Plain variants have secured the leading position in the halloumi cheese market, accounting for over 45.40% of the revenue share. This dominance can be attributed to their versatile and neutral flavor profile, which offers a balanced salty taste that easily complements a wide range of culinary creations. The adaptability of plain halloumi makes it a popular choice among consumers and chefs alike, as it can be effortlessly incorporated into numerous dishes without overpowering other ingredients.

By Distribution, Offline distribution channels continue to dominate the halloumi cheese market, maintaining a clear edge over online alternatives. This preference is largely driven by consumers' desire to physically examine the product before making a purchase. Shoppers value the ability to visually inspect the cheese's texture, ensuring it meets their quality expectations. Additionally, checking the integrity of the vacuum seal is crucial, as it directly impacts the freshness and safety of the cheese.

By Product Type, the mature segment of the halloumi cheese market has emerged as the highest revenue generator, accounting for 57.10% of the total market share. This strong performance is largely driven by growing consumer preference for the distinctive qualities that matured halloumi offers. As the cheese ages in brine for over 40 days, it develops a richer, more robust texture and flavor profile that appeals to discerning palates seeking a deeper sensory experience. Consumers appreciate the enhanced taste and firmer consistency that mature halloumi delivers, making it a favored choice for both traditional recipes and modern culinary applications.

Segment Breakdown

By Type

• Fresh Halloumi
• Mature Halloumi

By Nature

• Organic
• Conventional

By Flavor

• Plain
• Salty
• Tangy
• Others

By Distribution Channel

• Offline
• Direct Sales
• Hypermarkets
• Supermarkets
• Convenience Stores
• Dairy Stores
• Others
• Online

By Region

• North America
• U.S.
• Canada
• Mexico
• Europe
• UK
• Germany
• France
• Italy
• Spain
• Poland
• Russia
• Asia Pacific
• China
• Taiwan
• India
• Japan
• Australia & New Zealand
• ASEAN
• Rest of Asia Pacific
• Middle East & Africa (MEA)
• UAE
• Saudi Arabia
• South Africa
• Rest of MEA
• South America
• Brazil
• Argentina
• Rest of South America

Geography Breakdown

• Europe continues to hold its position as the global volume leader in the halloumi cheese market, with the UK alone consuming around 18,500 tons. Despite this strong demand, the region is currently facing significant margin compression, putting pressure on profitability. High consumer awareness combined with robust production capabilities in countries such as Cyprus and Greece is a key driver behind the market's ongoing growth. These factors have helped maintain Europe's dominance in both consumption and production of halloumi cheese.
• Cyprus, in particular, has solidified its reputation as the heart of halloumi cheese production, consumption, and export. This status is deeply rooted in its rich cultural heritage, where halloumi has been a staple of Cypriot cuisine for centuries. Traditionally crafted as a semi-hard cheese from a blend of sheep's and goat's milk, halloumi reflects the island's culinary identity and artisanal expertise. Strategic economic initiatives have further strengthened Cyprus's role in the global market, enabling it to capitalize on its unique product and expand its reach internationally.

Leading Market Participants

• Achnagal Dairies
• Almarai
• Arla Foods
• Dafni Dairy
• Lefkonitziatis Dairy Products
• Nordex Food
• Olympus Cheese
• Petrou Bros Dairy Products
• Pittas Dairy Industries
• Uhrenholt
• Zita Dairies
• Other Prominent Players