Denmark exports three quarters of its agricultural production, with pork, dairy products, and salmon as the leading exports. The agricultural sector accounts for around 22 percent of total Danish goods exported.  Although a relatively small market within the European Union, Denmark offers export opportunities for U.S. exporters - particularly in seafood, tree nuts, and, to a lesser extent, consumer-ready products. The country remains highly price-sensitive, with Danish consumers consistently seeking the best value for money.

There is a growing interest in plant-based products, while demand for organic food continues to be strong. In 2023, Danish consumers spent most on organic food items of all European Union countries.

Import Food Standards, Regulations, and Procedures

Most Danish food legislation is harmonized at the EU level. In areas where harmonization is incomplete or absent, imported products must comply with existing Danish national requirements. U.S. exporters should be aware that national measures still apply to:

• Enzymes
• Processing aids
• Packaging waste management
• Food contact materials
• Language requirements (Danish is mandatory)
• Use of stickers
• Samples
• Novel foods
•  Fortified foods
•  Irradiated foodstuffs
• Product registration

It is strongly recommended that U.S. exporters consult with their local Danish buyers, who are best positioned to verify import requirements with relevant Danish authorities before shipment. Final product approval lies with Danish customs and food authorities at the time of entry.

More information

Visit the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration and access the EU FAIRS Country Report and Certificate Report on the USDA’s Global Agricultural Information Network (GAIN).

Best Market Prospects

• Seafood: In 2024, the United States was Denmark’s ninth-largest seafood supplier, exporting 25,382 metric tons—about two percent of Denmark’s total seafood imports—and recording a one-third increase over 2023 due to rising shipments of fish fats and oils for Danish fish feed producers. Frozen Alaska Pollock dominated these exports, accounting for 27 percent of U.S. seafood shipments to Denmark and serving as a key raw material for local processors. Other notable products included shrimp and prawns, fish feed ingredients such as flours, meals, and pellets, as well as cod and wild salmon. The United States remains a trusted source for whitefish species and Jordani shrimp. With the EU’s 2024–2026 Autonomous Tariff Quota introducing new eligible species - some found in U.S. waters - while excluding Russia and Belarus, opportunities for American exporters are expected to expand.
   
• Wine: Denmark’s wine market is fragmented, with more than 1,500 importers, though a small group of dominant players handles the bulk of sales. In 2024, total wine imports were valued at USD 784 million, with Italy and France accounting for over USD 430 million, or half of all imports. The United States ranked as Denmark’s fourth-largest wine supplier and the largest non-EU source, with exports valued at USD 48 million. However, U.S. wine shipments have declined for three consecutive years, reflecting an overall contraction in Danish wine imports and changing consumer preferences. Red wine still represents about two-thirds of consumption, but lighter white wines and lower-alcohol beverages are becoming increasingly popular, particularly among younger consumers. Eco-friendly packaging options - such as lightweight bottles, cans, and bag-in-box formats - along with natural and organic wines are in growing demand. Supermarkets dominate distribution, accounting for roughly 80 percent of sales and relying heavily on promotions and discounts. High VAT (25 percent) and alcohol and packaging taxes continue to encourage cross-border shopping, with around one-quarter of Danish consumers purchasing wine in Germany to benefit from lower taxes.
   
• Craft Beer: The Danish beer market has shifted toward locally brewed products, supported by a thriving microbrewery scene. In 2024, Denmark imported $61 million in beer, a 5 percent increase from 2023, while U.S. beer exports to Denmark fell to $1.5 million, down sharply from $5.7 million in 2021. American exporters face stiff competition from Danish craft breweries - many of which already use U.S. hops - along with high transportation costs and short shelf life, which affect competitiveness. Despite these challenges, Danish consumers are increasingly seeking organic, alcohol-free, and gluten-free options, offering niche opportunities for specialized U.S. brewers.
   
• Distilled Spirits: The European Union remains a critical market for U.S. distilled spirits, accounting for roughly 30 percent of American exports. In Denmark, U.S. distilled spirits exports totaled $3.6 million in 2024, with bourbons making up 75 percent of that total. Denmark’s overall distilled spirits imports were USD 223 million, with Germany, the United Kingdom, Italy, the Netherlands, and France as the leading suppliers. However, health-driven consumer trends and growing scrutiny from international organizations such as the World Health Organization and the International Alliance for Responsible Drinking are influencing consumption patterns and could further restrict alcohol marketing and availability.
   
• Tree Nuts: The United States is Denmark’s third-largest supplier of tree nuts, following Germany and the Netherlands - both of which serve as major re-exporters of American products. In 2024, almond imports from the United States were valued at $20 million, although actual U.S. nut consumption in Denmark is likely much higher when accounting for indirect imports through other EU countries, a pattern also evident for walnuts and pistachios. The primary buyers of U.S. nuts include food manufacturers, bakeries, and producers of confectionery and snack foods.
   
• Sweet Potatoes: Danish imports of sweet potatoes increased by 23 percent in 2024, returning to levels seen in 2019-2021. While there are no direct imports from the United States, U.S.-grown sweet potatoes reach Denmark through Dutch distributors. These products face competition from Egyptian imports, which remain a strong presence in the Danish market.
   
• Condiments and Sauces: U.S. condiment and sauce brands such as Sweet Baby Ray’s and Tabasco maintain a visible presence on Danish supermarket shelves despite stiff competition from European alternatives. In 2024, U.S. imports in this category reached nearly USD 1.6 million, out of total category imports valued at $199 million.
   
• Wood Pellets: In 2024, Denmark imported $166 million worth of wood pellets from the United States, underscoring the strong transatlantic energy trade and Denmark’s demand for sustainable biomass fuel to support its green transition.

Resources 

For more information, please contact FAS in The Hague.