Article

14.08.2025

Poland is the leader in the growth of ice cream production in the EU

According to data published by Eurostat on 29th July 2025, shows that in 2024 Poland produced as much as 298 million litres of ice cream, which places Poland in 5th place among the European Union countries.

Among the five largest producers, only Poland recorded an increase. Other countries recorded declines:

• France: -12%
• Italy: -7%
• Spain: -6%
• Germany (leader of the ranking): – 1 per cent

Domestic production increased from about 231 million litres (in 2023) to 298 million litres in 2024. This was an unprecedented jump in the entire EU – by as much as 29% y/y.

EU countries produce more and more ice cream

Despite declines among the leading players, ice cream production across the EU also increased. In 2024, member states produced a total of 3.3 billion litres of ice cream, an increase of 2%. compared to 2023 (3.2 billion litres).

Source: Eurostat

In addition to the top five EU ice cream producers, Belgium also recorded dynamic growth: +35% and the Czech Republic: +15%.

Polish ice cream exports in 2024

In 2024, Poland exported 117,000 tons of ice cream, an increase of 13 percent. compared to 2023.

The value of exports reached EUR 405 million, which is 17% more than a year earlier.

Ice cream exports accounted for 11 percent of  the value of all exports of dairy products from Poland.

Main export directions

Polish ice cream goes mainly to EU markets, but it is also becoming more and more popular in countries outside the EU.

Exports to the European Union account for 84 per cent of foreign sales. The largest recipients are: Germany, France, Spain, Hungary and the Czech Republic.

Exports outside the EU account for 16 per cent of foreign sales, the most important direction is the United Kingdom, and also: the USA, Australia, Colombia, Libya, Gambia and Singapore.

Thanks to its expansion into new non-European markets, Poland is consistently strengthening its position as a global ice cream manufacturer, gaining increasing brand recognition and competitive advantage.

Polish ice cream on global markets – potential and challenges

Exports are playing an increasingly important role in the sales structure. Poland has a chance to strengthen its position in particular in France, Italy and other parts of Southern Europe. Stable consumer demand combined with decreasing local supply creates space for increased supplies from our country.

In the medium term, Poland may strengthen its position as a regional export centre, mainly in the industrial ice cream segment, especially in Central and Eastern Europe.

 Sources:

• Eurostat, „EU ice cream production sees uptick of 2% in 2024”, July 2025
• Gospodarz.pl, „Eksport lodów z Polski w 2024 r.”