Increased shipments of Pecorino cheese, yet apprehensions surface regarding potential US customs duties.
In the world of cheese, Pecorino Romano is a star performer, particularly in the United States where it has become a firm favourite. Last year, an impressive 130,000 quintals of the iconic Italian cheese were sold in the US, generating a value of 160 million euros. Remarkably, 35% of the total Pecorino Romano produced is exported to the US.
However, the growth of Pecorino Romano exports is not limited to the US. Good figures are also reported for other European Union countries, Japan, Canada, and Brazil. Gianni Maoddi, the president of the Consortium for the Protection of Pecorino Romano, is keeping a close eye on developments in these markets, as well as the US.
The uncertainty surrounding potential US tariffs is causing concern, as they could have a significant financial impact on the sector. The Consorzio di tutela, the body responsible for protecting Pecorino Romano, is working to avoid being caught off guard and to protect the sector from potential damage.
Despite the uncertainty, the market for Pecorino Romano remains strong. In the first six months of 2024, there was a +31% increase in quantity and +18% in value of Pecorino Romano exports to China. The domestic market accounts for 40% of Pecorino Romano, with Europe at 16% and the rest of the world at 9%.
The market price for Pecorino Romano has stabilized around 12.5 euros per kilogram, which has favoured an increase in demand. In the 2024 campaign, there was a 25.6% increase in sales of Pecorino Romano to the US, with nearly 80,000 quintals sold.
The Consorzio di tutela is focusing on exports, with China showing potential for growth in Pecorino Romano sales. In the 2023-2024 production campaign, 297 million liters of sheep's milk were collected, an increase of 11.56%. Of this milk, 229 million liters were transformed into Pecorino Romano Dop, resulting in 392,000 quintals and a market value of over 600 million euros.
As of July 2025, there is no concrete evidence or official reports indicating active or proposed US tariffs specifically on Pecorino Romano cheese exports. Consequently, any potential impact on the Italian economy in this regard remains speculative. Should tariffs be imposed in the future, Italian producers might face higher barriers and reduced competitiveness in the US market, which could negatively affect export revenues and the local economy tied to this iconic product.
It is recommended that those requiring the most up-to-date trade policy details monitor announcements regarding tariffs on Italian cheeses from specialized trade or government sources.
The Consortium for the Protection of Pecorino Romano is actively working to expand its business in various markets, including the US, Europe, Japan, Canada, and Brazil, to avoid potential financial impacts from tariffs. Despite the uncertain tariff situation in the US, the strong demand for Pecorino Romano has led to a 25.6% increase in sales to the US in the 2024 campaign, generating over 600 million euros in market value. It's crucial to keep track of trade policy details and tariff announcements on Italian cheeses, as changes could impact not only the companies directly involved but also the local economies tied to these iconic products.
