Table of Contents
Overview
New York, NY – October 01, 2025 – The Global Halloumi Cheese Market is projected to reach USD 1,270.6 million by 2034, rising from USD 472.4 million in 2024 at a steady CAGR of 10.4% between 2025 and 2034. In 2024, North America led the market, capturing 43.9% share with USD 207.3 million in revenue.
Halloumi cheese, a traditional dairy product originating from Cyprus, has grown from a regional specialty into a globally popular cheese variety. Traditionally crafted from a mix of sheep and goat milk, its production increasingly incorporates cow’s milk due to supply constraints. A milestone came in 2021 when Halloumi was granted Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status by the European Union, safeguarding its authenticity and limiting EU use of the term “Halloumi” to cheese produced in Cyprus.

Cyprus’s dairy sector processes about 210 million liters of milk annually, producing nearly 40,000 metric tons of Halloumi each year. In 2024, the nation exported more than 42,000 metric tons, generating about €324 million in revenue. This represented an 8.6% rise in volume and a 2.67% increase in value compared to 2023. Halloumi now accounts for roughly 13.4% of Cyprus’s total domestic exports, underscoring its role as a flagship agricultural product.
Demand is rising globally due to its unique grilling properties, ability to maintain shape when cooked, and high protein content. Its alignment with the health-focused Mediterranean diet further boosts popularity. However, challenges remain, particularly in maintaining PDO standards tied to sheep and goat milk supply. Cyprus has mandated a gradual increase in its share of production to 19% by 2024, sparking industry debates about feasibility and long-term production capacity.
Key Takeaways
- Halloumi Cheese Market size is expected to be worth around USD 1270.6 Million by 2034, from USD 472.4 Million in 2024, growing at a CAGR of 10.4%.
- Unflavored halloumi cheese maintained a dominant position in the global market, capturing more than 67.9% of the total market share.
- Conventional halloumi cheese maintained a dominant position in the global market, capturing more than 88.2% of the total market share.
- Sliced halloumi cheese held a dominant position in the global market, capturing more than 59.4% of the total market share.
- The Food service sector emerged as the leading end-use segment in the global halloumi cheese market, capturing more than 49.7% of the total market share.
- Supermarkets and hypermarkets captured a dominant 41.8% share of the global halloumi cheese market.
- North America emerged as the dominant region in the global halloumi cheese market, capturing a substantial 43.9% share, valued at approximately USD 207.3 million.
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Report Scope
Report Features | Description |
---|---|
Market Value (2024) | USD 472.4 Million |
Forecast Revenue (2034) | USD 1270.6 Million |
CAGR (2025-2034) | 10.4% |
Segments Covered | By Flavor (Unflavored, Flavored), By Nature (Organic, Conventional), By Form (Slices, Blocks), By End Use (Household, Food Service, Retail), By Distribution Channel (Supermarkets and Hypermarkets, Specialty Stores, Online, Others) |
Competitive Landscape | Petrou Bros Dairy Products, Zita Dairies, Uhrenholt, Hadjipieris, Arla Foods, Dafni Dairy, Nordex Food, Achnagal Dairies, Lefkonitziatis Dairy Products, Olympus Cheese, Almarai |
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Key Market Segments
By Flavor Analysis
Unflavored halloumi cheese led the global market in 2024, securing a 67.9% share. Its authentic flavor and versatility drive its popularity in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes. The cheese’s high melting point and unique texture make it ideal for grilling, salads, and sandwiches, appealing to both chefs and home cooks. Growing consumer demand for natural, traditional flavors further fuels its market dominance.
By Nature Analysis
Conventional halloumi cheese dominated with an 88.2% market share in 2024. Its traditional production methods and reliable quality ensure a steady supply, meeting rising global demand. Using cow’s milk enhances scalability and cost-effectiveness compared to sheep or goat milk, maintaining consistent availability and pricing for domestic and international markets.
By Form Analysis
Sliced halloumi cheese held a 59.4% market share in 2024, driven by its convenience and adaptability. Popular in the food service sector for quick preparation and uniform portions, it suits sandwiches, burgers, and salads due to its shape retention when grilled or fried. The demand for ready-to-eat, easy-to-prepare foods boosts its appeal among professional chefs and home cooks alike.
By End-Use Analysis
The food service sector led the halloumi cheese market in 2024 with a 49.7% share, driven by restaurants, cafes, and catering services. Halloumi’s high melting point makes it perfect for grilling and frying, aligning with the needs of these establishments. The rising popularity of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines, combined with the growing demand for vegetarian and flexitarian options, further increases its use as a versatile protein source.
By Distribution Channel Analysis
Supermarkets and hypermarkets accounted for 41.8% of halloumi cheese distribution in 2024. Their wide reach and diverse product offerings, including branded and private-label options, cater to varied consumer preferences. Strategic in-store placement boosts visibility and impulse purchases. The growing demand for Mediterranean cuisines and protein-rich, vegetarian-friendly foods drives expanded offerings and innovative packaging in these retail channels.
Regional Analysis
North America Dominates Halloumi Cheese Market with 43.9% Share in 2024
In 2024, North America led the global halloumi cheese market, holding a 43.9% share valued at approximately USD 207.3 million, with the United States driving the majority of regional revenue. The rising popularity of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines, alongside growing demand for protein-rich vegetarian options, has fueled halloumi consumption. Its unique grilling properties and culinary versatility have boosted its appeal in both household and food service sectors across the region.
Top Use Cases
- Grilling as a Meat Substitute: Halloumi’s firm texture holds up well on the grill, making it a tasty choice for vegetarians looking for a protein-packed alternative to burgers or skewers. Slice it thick, brush with oil, and char it lightly for a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with fresh veggies and herbs in casual backyard meals.
- Salad Topper for Added Crunch: Add grilled or fresh halloumi cubes to salads for a salty, chewy contrast that elevates simple greens. Its mild tang complements tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives, turning a basic side dish into a hearty lunch option that feels light yet satisfying for health-focused eaters.
- Sandwich Filler for Quick Bites: Layer pan-fried halloumi slices into wraps or pitas with veggies and spreads for a portable meal that doesn’t sog. The cheese’s squeaky bite and caramelized edges bring excitement to everyday sandwiches, ideal for busy professionals seeking flavorful, no-fuss handheld eats.
- Appetizer Star in Meze Platters: Serve fried halloumi sticks or bites as a crowd-pleasing starter alongside dips and breads in Mediterranean-style spreads. Its golden crust and subtle minty notes make it a conversation starter at gatherings, appealing to guests who enjoy sharing bold, shareable nibbles.
- Stir-Fry Enhancer for Asian Twists: Toss cubed halloumi into veggie stir-fries for a unique melt-resistant element that absorbs savory sauces without turning mushy. This fusion approach introduces a Mediterranean flair to quick wok dishes, delighting adventurous home cooks experimenting with global flavor blends.
Recent Developments
1. Petrou Bros Dairy Products
Petrou Bros is investing in expanding its international footprint, particularly in the US and German markets. Recent developments focus on leveraging the EU’s Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status for “Halloumi” to differentiate its authentic Cypriot product. The company is enhancing its marketing to emphasize traditional recipes and quality, aiming to capitalize on the growing global demand for genuine Halloumi cheese following the PDO enforcement.
2. Zita Dairies
Zita Dairies has recently focused on operational excellence and sustainability. The company is modernizing its production facilities to increase efficiency and output to meet rising export demands. A key development is their increased focus on the UK market, a critical region for Halloumi exports, ensuring a consistent supply of their products. They are also promoting their use of high-quality local milk, aligning with PDO standards.
3. Uhrenholt
As a major European food distributor, Uhrenholt’s recent development is the launch of a new, own-brand Halloumi line. This strategy allows them to offer a competitive product directly to retail chains across Europe. They are focusing on the popular “grilling cheese” segment, marketing their Halloumi for its excellent frying and grilling properties to capitalize on seasonal barbecue demand and home-cooking trends.
4. Hadjipieris
Hadjipieris is emphasizing its heritage and quality, recently refreshing its branding to highlight its long-standing history as a Cypriot producer. A significant development is their push into new product variants, such as organic and reduced-salt Halloumi, targeting health-conscious consumers in Europe. They are also actively engaging in promotional campaigns within Cyprus to strengthen their position as a leading local brand amidst increased competition.
5. Arla Foods
Arla Foods, through its Cypriot subsidiary Arla Foods Cyprus (formerly CCOE), is heavily involved in adapting to the Halloumi PDO. A key recent development is their significant investment in helping their farmer owners transition to supplying more sheep and goat milk, as required by the PDO recipe. They are also launching a major Education & Information campaign in key markets to explain the PDO changes and reassure consumers about product authenticity.
Conclusion
Halloumi cheese continues to shine as a versatile darling in today’s food scene, blending timeless Mediterranean roots with modern tastes for grilling and snacking. Its ability to stay firm under heat opens doors for creative, protein-rich dishes that suit vegetarian lifestyles and busy kitchens alike. As shoppers lean toward fresh, authentic ingredients and explore ethnic cuisines, halloumi’s salty charm and easy prep make it a smart pick for brands aiming to capture hearts in retail aisles and dining spots.
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