Global Food Marketer™
Educating & Enriching News of Global Food Markets
2025 Global Food Forecast
As we proceed into 2025, the global food market is at a pivotal moment, shaped by shifting consumer preferences, advancements in technology, and an increased focus on sustainability. U.S. exporters are uniquely positioned to tap into these transformative trends, ensuring their products meet the demands of international markets.
Sustainability as a Core Value Worldwide, consumers have made it clear: sustainability is no longer a differentiation, it’s an expectation. Euromonitor reports that sustainable products in the staple foods and cooking ingredients sectors achieved
a 7% compound annual growth rate from 2020 to 2023, emphasizing their importance to consumers. Exporters are encouraged to prioritize sustainable sourcing, ecofriendly packaging, and transparent labeling to build trust and align with global expectations. Successful brands are those that not only embrace sustainable practices but communicate these efforts effectively, educating consumers on terms like “organic” and “natural” to bridge common knowledge gaps.
Plant-Based Foods: Beyond the Trend
Plant-based innovations continue to thrive as consumers seek sustainable, health-conscious
Food Export–Midwest and Food Export–Northeast staff at the annual Fall Member State Meeting in Chicago, IL, October 10, 2024
alternatives. The evolution of products like vegan salmon crafted from seaweed and pasta made from nutrient-dense flours such as quinoa and spirulina showcase the versatility of plant-based solutions. Exporters can capitalize on this growing demand by developing products that appeal to flexitarians, who balance plant-based and traditional proteins in their diets.
Brands leveraging technology to tell their sustainability story and provide traceability for their products are gaining competitive advantages.
Functional Foods and Personalized Nutrition
Wellness remains a top priority for global consumers, driving demand for functional foods and beverages. Products fortified with probiotics, adaptogens, and omega-3s address key health concerns, from immunity to mental clarity. The integration of artificial intelligence into product development is also opening doors to personalized nutrition, providing consumers with tailored solutions that meet their unique health needs.
Global Flavors, Local Twists
While consumers are embracing global cuisines, they’re also seeking unique fusion products that combine
authentic international flavors with local ingredients. Examples like masala-inspired snacks and Latin American dessert hybrids illustrate the opportunity for exporters to innovate and cater to diverse palates. These offerings enable U.S. suppliers to reach new markets while showcasing creativity.
Technology Driving Transparency
Digital tools are transforming consumer engagement by enabling greater transparency in sourcing and production. Brands leveraging technology to tell their sustainability story and provide traceability for their products are gaining competitive advantages.
These trends mean that this year, U.S. exporters have several exciting opportunities to gain market advantage by staying at the forefront of emerging consumer demands. By ensuring their offerings meet both the functional and emotional needs of modern buyers, businesses can position themselves as leaders in global markets. Food Export’s Market Builder tool helps identify where products are in demand, while the Branded Program provides cost-sharing support to reach new audiences and capitalize on these opportunities. Find the resources you need to succeed at www.foodexport.org.
Introducing the Export Roadmap Your Path to Global Success
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Join our expert-led webinars to gain the latest intelligence on key export topics, including market-specific insights, logistics strategies, trade financing, documentation, and essential industry updates. These sessions are tactfully designed to help you navigate the complexities of international trade and stay ahead in competitive global markets.
‣ From Factory Floor to Sales Floor at Destination: Export Price Escalation in Practice February 19
‣ Export Documentary Payments and Collections March 5, 2025
‣ How To: Prepare to Meet International Buyers March 19, 2025
‣ Agricultural Export Forecast 2025 April 2, 2025
Market Profiles
Taiwan
Snack Foods
Prepared/Preserved Seafood
Seafood
Alcoholic Beverages
Chocolate & Confectionery
Dairy Products
$3.7 billion in food and agricultural products imported from the U.S. in 2023
10th largest
U.S. export market for processed foods
$648.2 million in processed foods imported from the U.S. in 2023
Taiwan’s aging population, with nearly 20% over 65 by 2025, is driving demand for functional foods targeting age-related health concerns like immunity and joint health. U.S. exporters have a growing opportunity to cater to this market with innovative, health-focused products.
Food Preparations and Ingredients
Food Preparations & Ingredients
Oilseeds
Soups
Non-Alcoholic Beverages
Bakery
Prepared/Preserved Meats
Fats & Oils
Dog +
Processed Vegetables & Pulses
Processed/Prepared Dairy
Syrups and Sweeteners
Seafood and Aquatic Food
Prepared/Preserved Seafood
Alcoholic Beverages
TOP PROCESSED EXPORT PRODUCTS IMPORTED BY TAIWAN IN 2023
Condiments, Sauces,
Soups
Food Preparations & Ingredients
Non-Alcoholic Beverages
Non-Alcoholic Beverages Processed Vegetables and Pulses
Processed
Snack Foods
Bakery Ingredients
Processed/ Prepared Dairy Products
Fats & Oils
Prepared/Preserved Meats
Prepared/Preserved
Dog + Cat Food
Chocolate & Confectionery
Canned/Dried
Processed/Prepared Dairy Products
Syrups and Sweeteners
Food Preparations
Dairy Products
Alcoholic Beverages
Taiwan’s growing focus on diversifying trade partnerships has created an opportunity for U.S. exporters to strengthen their presence in the market. This shift allows U.S. businesses to position themselves as reliable trade partners for Taiwan’s increasing demand for high-quality imported goods.
Prepared/Preserved
Condiments, Sauces, Jams
Sweet Biscuits, Snack Bars, and Ready Meals
Oilseeds
Snack Foods
Non-Alcoholic Beverages
Breakfast Cereals
Processed/Prepared
Discover more about the Taiwan market including overviews about the retail, foodservice, and food-processing sectors in our full market profile.
Seafood and Aquatic
Fats & Oils
Canned/Dried Fruit
Alcoholic Beverages
Chocolate & Confectionery
7th largest market for U.S. consumer food products in Europe
$186.5 million
U.S. processed food exports in 2023
$7.4 billion of U.S. imports from Italy in 2023
U.S. foods are viewed as trendy, new, and innovative, especially those with health benefits, making the market ripe for unique high-quality offerings from American exporters
Prepared/Preserved
Processed Vegetables
Prepared/Preserved
Processed Vegetables and Pulses
Prepared/Preserved
Food
Food Preparations
Bakery Ingredients Dog + Cat Food
Food Preparations
TOP PROCESSED FOODS EXPORTED TO ITALY IN 2023
Prepared/Preserved
Prepared/Preserved
Sweet Biscuits, Ready Meals
Processed Vegetables & Pulses
Prepared/Preserved
Prepared/Preserved Seafood
Prepared/Preserved Seafood Alcoholic Beverages
Processed/Prepared Alcoholic Beverages
Breakfast Cereals
Food Preparations and Ingredients
Food Preparations & Ingredients
Canned, Dried, and Frozen Fruit
Non-Alcoholic
Condiments, Sauces, Jams, and Jellies
Fats & Oils
Processed Vegetables &
Prepared/Preserved Meats
Prepared/Preserved Seafood
Syrups and Sweeteners
Processed/Prepared Dairy
Canned/Dried Coffee Nuts
Food Preparations & Ingredients
Discover more about the Italian market including overviews about the retail, foodservice, and food-processing sectors in our full market profile.
Processed/Prepared Alcoholic Beverages Non-Alcoholic Beverages Fats & Oils
Alcoholic Beverages
Condiments,
Animal Fats
Prepared/Preserved
FORECASTED HIGH GROWTH PRODUCTS
$366.3 million U.S. processed foods imported in 2022 45% growth in U.S. exports of processed foods to India in 2022
1.4 billion total population 3rd largest food and grocery market in the world
Sauces, Dips, and Condiments
India’s retail sales in the packaged food market reached $99.1 billion in 2023, a 60.8% growth since 2019, and are expected to grow another 50.7% by 2028.
Largest U.S. market for processed food products in South Asia.
Learn more about the Indian market including overviews about the retail, foodservice, and food-processing sectors in our full market profile.
Rice, Pasta, and Noodles
Pet Food Sweet Spreads
Breakfast Cereals
Success Stories
NEW JERSEY SNACK COMPANY EXPANDS GLOBAL REACH WITH FOOD EXPORT
With roots in the snack industry going back to the 1950s, Star Snacks, Co. LLC of Jersey City, New Jersey, offers high-quality snack nut products for retailers and those seeking private label products. Star Snacks has participated in Food Export programs since 2015 to gain worldwide brand awareness for its snack products.
In February of 2023, Star Snacks LLC attended Food Export–Northeast’s Northeast Buyers Mission held in Jersey City where they met with buyers from several countries. As a result of that activity, Star Snacks made strong export sales of sweet and savory snacks worth $1.5 million to Canada, Peru, and the Cayman Islands.
Later in 2023 Star Snacks also participated in Food Export’s Sweets and Snacks Buyers Mission at the
INDIANA PET TREAT SUPPLIER EXPANDS INTERNATIONALLY WITH FOOD EXPORT
Scout & Zoe’s, known for their allergy-free pet treats, achieved international success through Food Export programs, securing new sales in Dubai. Learn how this Indiana-based company leveraged the Branded Program and Buyers Missions to grow their global presence here.
Sweets and Snacks Expo, the Focused Trade Mission to Mexico for Private Label, Retail and Foodservice, the Product Showcase at ANUFOOD Brazil, and the Specialty Food Buyers Mission at the Summer Fancy Show. These combined events resulted in additional projected export sales, 21 new foreign buyer contacts and 23 new distributorships established. Read more here.
Get Expert Guidance with Virtual Consultations
Explore new markets and refine your export strategies with Food Export’s Virtual Consultations. These 30-minute one-on-one video sessions connect you with In-Market Representatives (IMRs) who can provide answers to your market-specific questions about export plans, market expansion, and distribution opportunities, saving you time and money in your export journey. Whether you’re targeting Southeast Asia, Europe, or beyond, Virtual Consultations offer valuable insights to help you achieve export success. Start now! Choose your market and book your consultation today.
Product Highlights
Processed/Prepared Dairy
Global consumers are increasingly seeking premium dairy products with unique flavors, functional benefits, and sustainable sourcing. U.S. exporters, particularly from the Northeast and Midwest, have a competitive edge with products like artisanal cheeses, shelf-stable dairy snacks, and high-protein innovations.
Examples of Export-Ready Dairy Products
• Artisanal and specialty cheeses (e.g., smoked, aged, or flavored varieties)
• High-protein Greek yogurt and drinkable yogurts
• Lactose-free and plant-based dairy alternatives
• Dairy-based snack bars and protein puffs
• Shelf-stable milk and cream products
• Butter and ghee, including organic options
• Whipped toppings and dessert mixes
• Premium ice cream, gelato, and frozen novelties
With a strong reputation for quality and creativity, U.S. dairy offerings align with global trends like clean labels,
plant-forward blends, and eco-friendly packaging.
Leverage these advantages to meet international demand and grow your export footprint.
Canned, Dried, and Frozen Fruit
As demand for nutritious, convenient, and versatile food options grows globally, canned, dried, and frozen fruits are emerging as key staples in both retail and foodservice markets. U.S. exporters, especially those from the Northeast and Midwest, are uniquely positioned to deliver premium fruit products that meet the needs of healthconscious and sustainability-focused consumers.
Ideas for Export-Ready Fruit Products
• Frozen berries and fruit mixes
• Dried fruit blends, including trail mixes with nuts and seeds
• Canned fruits in natural juices or light syrups
• Freeze-dried fruit snacks and powders for smoothies
• Individually quick-frozen (IQF) fruits for foodservice
• Fruit purees and concentrates for beverages and desserts
Food for Thought
Food Export Blog
For the latest in industry trends, current events, upcoming activities, and expert insights to grow your business.
Showcasing the Impact of Food Export’s Branded Program: Featured Suppliers
The Branded Program isn’t just about funding – it’s about unlocking global opportunities. Watch how Cooper Street Cookies, a small Michigan company, overcame export challenges to go international, and how Bassetts Ice Cream, America’s oldest ice cream brand, grew its presence in key global markets.
Through engaging videos, these businesses share their journeys, highlighting how the Branded Program’s costsharing for marketing activities and expert guidance helped them thrive on the international stage.
See their stories in action and discover how the Branded Program can work for you.
BREAKING NEW GROUND IN INDIA
The Indian market is bursting with opportunities for U.S. exporters, with $1.73 billion in U.S. food exports in 2023 and growing demand for premium and processed products. Food Export’s new In-Market Representative, Sumit Saran, brings 20+ years of expertise to help U.S. suppliers succeed in this dynamic market.
From Virtual Consultations to the Market Builder program, discover how Food Export’s tools can guide your business in exploring India’s retail, foodservice, and processing sectors.
John Eppinger, Branded Program Coordinator, Food Export-Northeast; Katie LaBarge, Branded Program Coordinator, Food Export-Midwest; Gabriel Burton, Branded Program Associate, Food Export-Midwest; Molly Burns, Branded Program Director, Food Export-Midwest and Food Export-Northeast; Dawn Cook, Branded Program Associate, Food Export-Midwest; Teresa Miller, Chief Program & Partnership Officer, Food Export-Midwest and Food Export-Northeast; Howard Gordon, Branded Program Manager, Food Export-Northeast. (Not pictured: Veronica Wade, Amy Austin, Anna McCrorey)
Food Export Podcast
Your monthly guide to expanding your knowledge and expertise in food exports!
Season Two Premiere:
Fresh Markets, Fresh Perspectives with Brendan Wilson, CEO/ Executive Director
Brendan Wilson talks navigating tariffs with a diversified portfolio, prospects of new Free Trade Agreements, and more in the first episode of season two!
From the Archives:
Introducing the Branded Program
Curious about how the Branded Program can help your business grow internationally? Join Molly Burnes, our Branded Program Director, in this episode of the Food Export Podcast as she shares valuable insights about the program and how to make the most of its benefits.
New Podcast Episode Coming February 12!
Mark your calendars! A new episode of the Food Export Podcast is dropping on February 12!
Expanding Opportunities in the International Pet Food Market
The global pet food market continues to experience robust growth, presenting U.S. exporters with significant opportunities to expand their reach and cater to evolving consumer preferences. With the market projected to reach approximately $162 billion in 2025 (Euromonitor) and a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.34% expected from 2025 to 2029, there has never been a better time to capitalize on this dynamic industry.
Key Markets for Growth
The global pet food market has demonstrated consistent growth over the past decade, reflecting the rise in elevated pet care and rising pet ownership worldwide. In 2010, the retail value of global pet food sales was approximately $72.3 billion (Euromonitor), and by 2023, they had risen to about $141.1 billion, indicating a significant upward trend.
This sustained growth illustrates the resilience and expanding nature of the pet food industry,
offering U.S. exporters a stable and lucrative opportunity to tap into international markets. Canada remains a leading destination for U.S. pet food exports, benefiting from cultural similarities and strong demand for high-quality, natural products. In China, where the urban pet population is forecasted to surpass the number of children under four years old by 2030, the pet food market is projected to grow to $12 billion. (Financial Times) Meanwhile, as pets in Japan live longer due to advancements in care and nutrition, the aging pet population is fueling demand for specialized diets designed to support age-related needs, such as joint health, dental care, and skin wellness. Across Europe, markets like Germany and France emphasize sustainability and organic certifications, providing opportunities for U.S. exporters who align with these values.
Sustainability Takes Center Stage
Sustainability is a defining factor in the pet food market, with consumers gravitating toward products that demonstrate environmentally
friendly practices. Brands offering plant-based options, such as those incorporating quinoa and legumes, are gaining traction as ethical and sustainable alternatives to traditional meat-based formulations. The fish-based pet food market, for example, is projected to grow at a 5% CAGR, reaching $16.7 billion by 2033 (Future Market Insights). Additionally, innovative solutions like biodegradable or recyclable packaging enhance brand appeal among environmentally conscious buyers.
Functional and Premium Nutrition
Functional pet food addressing specific health concerns, such as digestion, immunity, and weight management, continues to capture market share. With the pet obesity management market dominating therapeutic food segments at 89.12% in 2024 (Yahoo Finance), specialized diets are becoming more mainstream.
Premiumization is also a driving force, with pet food made from human-grade ingredients, gourmet formulations, and fresh options reflecting the elevated status of pets in households. Approximately 42% of dog and cat owners are willing to spend more on premium pet food options (Dogster), further reinforcing this trend.
Opportunities Across Pet Segments
While dog food remains the largest segment globally, cat food is growing at a faster rate, driven by urban pet owners seeking convenient
and specialized products. Specialty pets, including reptiles, birds, and small mammals, represent a growing niche, creating opportunities for exporters to innovate in lesser-served markets.
E-Commerce as a Key Driver
E-commerce is rapidly reshaping the pet food industry, with roughly 40% of pet owners now purchasing pet food and treats online (Dogster). This growth highlights the importance of digital strategies for U.S. exporters looking to expand their international presence.
The global pet food market has demonstrated consistent growth over the past decade, reflecting the rise in elevated pet care and rising pet ownership worldwide.
Positioning U.S. Exporters for Success
These trends highlight the alignment of the pet food industry with broader consumer values, such as sustainability, functionality, and premiumization. By embracing these demands and delivering innovative, eco-friendly solutions, U.S. exporters can secure their place in this vibrant global market.
Find out how Food Export can support your pet food export journey. Visit www.foodexport.org to explore tools like our Market Builder and the Branded Program, designed to help you connect with buyers and expand your global reach.
Upcoming Activities
Learn more about the markets and product categories discussed in this issue at these upcoming events!
‣ Pet Food Buyers Mission at Global Pet Expo Orlando, Florida | March 25, 2025
‣ Pet Food Ingredients Buyers Mission at 2025 Pet Food Forum Kansas City, Missouri | April 28, 2025
‣ Sweets and Snacks Buyers Mission at the 2025 Sweets and Snacks Expo Indianapolis, Indiana | May 12 – 14, 2025
‣ Food Show PLUS! at HOFEX 2025 Hong Kong | May 14-16, 2025
‣ Foodservice Buyers Mission at 2025 National Restaurant Association Show Chicago, Illinois | May 16 -18, 2025
‣ Food Show PLUS! at World of Private Label International Trade Show 2025 Amsterdam, Netherlands | May 20-21, 2025
‣ Food Show PLUS! at Thaifex ANUGA 2025 Bangkok, Thailand | May 27-31, 2025
‣ Dairy, Deli, and Bakery Buyers Mission at IDDBA 2025 New Orleans, Louisiana | June 1-2, 2025
‣ Value Added Feed Ingredients Buyers Mission at the Pork Expo 2025 Des Moines, Iowa | June 4, 2025
If you are a buyer or a seller interested in participating in any of our in-person events and learning more, please contact info@foodexport.org.
Global Food Marketer™
FOOD EXPORT ASSOCIATION OF THE MIDWEST USA® AND FOOD EXPORT USA®–NORTHEAST
We are non-profit organizations comprised of state agricultural promotion agencies that use federal, state, and industry resources to promote the export of Midwestern and Northeastern food and agricultural products.
Food Export–Midwest and Food Export–Northeast administer many services through Market Access Program (MAP) funding from the Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) of the USDA.
Brendan Wilson
Chief Executive Officer/Executive Director
Michelle Rogowski
Chief Operating Officer/Deputy Director
Laura England
Chief Communications Officer/Deputy Director
Teresa Miller
Chief Program & Partnership Officer
Gina Donio
Marketing & Communications Manager
FOOD EXPORT ASSOCIATION OF THE MIDWEST (FOOD EXPORT–MIDWEST) 309 W. Washington St., Suite 600 Chicago, IL 60606 USA tel: 312.334.9200 • www.foodexport.org
FOOD EXPORT USA–NORTHEAST (FOOD EXPORT–NORTHEAST) One Penn Center, 1617 JFK Blvd. , Suite 420 Philadelphia, PA 19103 USA tel: 215.829.9111 • www.foodexport.org
Food Export–Midwest and Food Export–Northeast administer many services through Market Access Program (MAP) funding from the Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) of the USDA. Persons with disabilities who require reasonable accommodations or alternate means of communication of program information should contact us. Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English. Food Export–Midwest and Food Export–Northeast prohibit discrimination in all their programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity (including gender expression), sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, familial/parental status, income derived from a public assistance program, political beliefs, reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity. To file a program discrimination complaint, go to https:// www.ascr.usda.gov/filing-program-discrimination-complaint-usda-customer.
From a recent Winter Fancy Food Buyers Mission. Pictured is Lou Foah and Sokha Lim from Panos Brands LLC from Rochelle Park, NJ with buyers from the UAE.