Dairy brands from China, India and the Middle East are outperforming several global competitors in brand strength, according to Brand Finance’s 2026 dairy brand rankings. The results highlight the growing influence of regional dairy companies and the importance of consumer trust, distribution networks and product innovation.
China’s Yili retained the top position by brand value, recording a 29% increase to US$14.5 billion. It achieved a Brand Strength Index (BSI) score of 85 and an AAA rating. France-based Danone ranked second with a brand value of US$8.2 billion.
China’s Mengniu took third place after its brand value increased 26% to US$6 billion, supported by a BSI score of 87.2 and an AAA rating. India’s Amul ranked fourth, with a brand value of US$5 billion and an AAA+ rating. Middle Eastern dairy company Almarai completed the top five with a brand value of US$4.1 billion.
While Yili led the ranking by brand value, Amul achieved the highest Brand Strength Index score at 93. The distinction demonstrates that brand value and brand strength measure different aspects of market performance: financial valuation on one hand, and consumer perceptions and brand performance on the other.
Brand Finance Director Henry Farr attributed Amul’s strong performance to its long-standing consumer trust, extensive distribution network and deep connection with Indian households. Its cooperative structure, which links millions of milk producers with a large consumer market, has helped establish a distinctive position in India's dairy sector.
Yili’s leadership in brand value reflects its broad product portfolio, spanning liquid milk, yoghurt, ice cream, milk powder and nutritional products. The company has also invested in adult nutrition and health-oriented offerings as dairy consumption patterns evolve.
The rankings further recognised Vietnam’s Vinamilk and Finland’s Valio with AAA+ ratings, demonstrating that brand strength is not determined by valuation alone.
The findings come amid different economic conditions across major dairy markets. China continues to face challenges associated with weaker consumer sentiment and its property sector, while India’s growth outlook remains comparatively strong. Inflationary pressures, climate-related risks and geopolitical uncertainty also pose challenges for dairy businesses across markets.
For the dairy industry, the rankings underline the importance of combining brand trust with innovation, reliable distribution and products that respond to changing consumer needs. Amul’s performance highlights how a strong domestic foundation and established consumer relationships can support a dairy brand’s competitiveness on the global stage.
Source: Dairynews7x7 15 Oct, 2026 Read full article here
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