Butter, a traditional dairy product with high nutritional value and unique flavor, is widely used in baking and catering industries. In Europe, countries like France, Germany, and Denmark consider butter a dietary staple in baking and sauces. With the spread of Western diets, butter imports are rising in Asian markets such as China, Indonesia, and India.

       In recent years, China's butter market has grown rapidly due to improved living standards and consumption upgrades, leading to a supply - shortage situation. Domestic butter production falls short of demand, necessitating imports. China mainly imports butter from New Zealand, France, and the Netherlands, with New Zealand accounting for 80.91% of total imports and leading for five consecutive years.

       From 2020 to 2024, China's butter imports showed an upward trend with fluctuations. In 2020, imports were 85,600 tons worth $390 million, affected by the pandemic and economic conditions. In 2021, imports rose to 97,500 tons worth $490 million, up 13.29% and 20.97% year - on - year. In 2022, imports reached 101,400 tons worth $660 million, up 4.08% and 34.64%. In 2023, imports dipped to 92,600 tons worth $620 million, down 8.69% and 6.84%. However, in 2024, imports rebounded to 104,900 tons worth $740 million, up 13.25% and 19.67% year - on - year.

       The decline in China's butter imports in 2023 was due to factors like price inversions, seasonal demand, increased domestic production, and competition from substitutes. However, with the upgrading of the domestic consumption market and a growing demand for high - quality dairy products, China's demand for butter is expected to keep rising in the coming years. Driven by industries like baking and catering, butter consumption is set to increase further. Domestic enterprises need to speed up technological innovation and industrial upgrading to improve their competitiveness and handle fierce market competition. The government should optimize the policy environment to promote the healthy development of the domestic butter industry, meet domestic demand, and lessen import reliance.

       As Chinese butter importers, it's crucial to stay updated on market dynamics. Especially given the heavy reliance on imports, data - driven strategies are vital for enhancing competitiveness. Going forward, with the upgrading of China's dairy product consumption and the deepening of global supply chains, the application of customs data will become more refined, serving as a key support for importers to navigate complex trade conditions.

       Guomao Tong, China's first data company in this field, offers customs data for over 80 countries from 2010 to the present. It provides in - depth analysis of market distribution, enterprise transactions, and supply cycles, supporting foreign - trade firms and industry consultants with reliable data.

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