Nepali Churpi for dogs sees strong export growth, mainly to the US and Canada

In Nepal, churpi is traditionally known as a hard cheese made from yak or cow milk, usually eaten by people and often gifted when visiting family and friends in hilly and mountainous regions.

But in recent years, Nepali churpi has found a new global market—not for humans, but for dogs.

The unique and nutritious hard cheese is now being exported in large amounts to countries like the United States, Canada, Japan, and the UK, mainly as a dog chew treat (dog chew or “dog churpi”). The export of this traditional product has grown rapidly, and it is being processed and packaged for international pet markets.

Huge export value

In the first 11 months of the current fiscal year 2081/82 (2024–2025), Nepal exported nearly Rs 4 billion worth of churpi made for dogs. According to data from the Customs Department, 2,265 metric tons of dog churpi has been exported during this time.

The United States is the largest market, importing over Rs 3.49 billion worth of churpi (1,888 metric tons). Canada is the second biggest, with imports of over Rs 308 million (138 metric tons), followed by the United Kingdom with Rs 59 million (21 metric tons), and Japan with Rs 52 million (143 metric tons).

In total, Nepali churpi is now being exported to over 27 countries, including South Korea, Malaysia, Taiwan, Ukraine, China, Spain, and Qatar.

Local production and global impact

The churpi is still made using traditional techniques but now processed with modern technology. The production includes collecting milk directly from local farmers, processing it through 10–12 steps, and then packaging and exporting it. This model supports rural farmers, women, and youth by offering fair prices for milk and involving them in the supply chain.

Workers at processing centers help with everything from production to packaging and shipment. With growing demand, many businesses in this sector are expanding their operations and planning exports to new markets.

Market outlook

According to industry estimates, the global demand for dog churpi is expected to grow by 8% annually until 2035. The rising popularity of natural dog treats has made Nepali churpi a competitive product in the international market.

The strong export growth this year—already surpassing last year’s total of 1,646 metric tons and Rs 3.18 billion—shows that Nepal’s churpi industry is on the rise. The demand in markets like the US is especially promising, and if quality, branding, and supply chains are maintained, Nepali churpi could become a global pet product success story.