The U.S. dairy industry is gaining new momentum in Southeast Asia after new trade agreements with Malaysia and Cambodia, and trade frameworks with Thailand and Vietnam.
The National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) and the U.S. Dairy Export Council (USDEC) hailed the deals as “big wins for America’s dairy farmers.” Both groups say the agreements will expand market access in one of the world’s fastest-growing regions for dairy consumption.
Tariff Cuts and Stronger Market Access
The Malaysia and Cambodia agreements will remove nearly all tariffs on U.S. dairy exports. They also strengthen protections for common cheese names, streamline certification and registration rules, and formally recognize U.S. food safety standards.
Together, these measures make it easier for U.S. suppliers to deliver high-quality dairy ingredients and products across Southeast Asia.
New Frameworks with Thailand and Vietnam
The new trade frameworks with Thailand and Vietnam outline similar goals. They aim to reduce non-tariff barriers and improve cooperation on regulations, digital trade, and import procedures.
Both countries already rank among the top 20 export destinations for U.S. dairy products.
Industry Response
“These agreements ensure fair access to Southeast Asia’s fast-growing markets,” said Gregg Doud, President and CEO of NMPF.
Krysta Harden, President and CEO of USDEC, added that they “open new doors for U.S. dairy exports in two dynamic markets and promise more to come.”
Trade Numbers and Global Context
In 2024, U.S. dairy exports totaled $118 million to Malaysia, $127 million to Vietnam, and $87 million to Thailand. While Cambodia’s dairy imports reached only $3 million, analysts see strong potential for growth as tariffs are removed.
These agreements also help the U.S. compete more effectively with the European Union, New Zealand, and Australia, all of which have free trade deals in the region.
Outlook for Global Dairy Trade
The new trade measures highlight dairy’s growing role in global markets. They also underscore how international policy continues to shape opportunities for farmers, cooperatives, and processors across the U.S. supply chain.
