Is A2 Milk International? Global Availability and Market Growth

December 15, 2025 •

4 min read

According to market analysis firm Pristine Market Insights, the A2 milk market is expected to experience significant growth globally over the next decade, with rapid expansion projected in Europe and North America. This rapid growth confirms that A2 milk is international, moving beyond its origins to become a recognized dairy product worldwide.

Quick Summary

A2 milk is internationally available in many regions, including Australia, China, North America, and parts of Europe and Asia, with strong growth driven by key global players and increasing consumer awareness.

Key Points

Global Presence: A2 milk is available internationally, including major markets like Australia, China, North America, and India.
Market Expansion: The market is experiencing significant growth, driven by consumer interest in perceived health and digestive benefits.
A1 vs. A2: Unlike most conventional milk, A2 milk contains only the A2 beta-casein protein, which some consumers find easier to digest.
Driving Factors: Key drivers include increasing health consciousness, product innovation beyond fresh milk, and strategic partnerships for global distribution.
Challenges: The market faces challenges, including scientific debates over health claims, premium pricing, and navigating regulatory scrutiny.
International Brands: Key players like The a2 Milk Company and Fonterra operate internationally, alongside growing interest from other global brands.

The Global Reach of A2 Milk

When New Zealand scientists first identified the difference between A1 and A2 beta-casein proteins in cow’s milk, they unlocked a new category in the dairy industry. The a2 Milk Company pioneered the marketing of milk containing only the A2 protein, targeting consumers who reported digestive discomfort with regular milk. What began as a niche product has evolved into a global phenomenon, with a rapidly expanding market and significant international distribution. Today, the question isn't whether A2 milk is international, but rather how its international market continues to grow and adapt.

Key International A2 Milk Markets

An examination of A2 milk's presence reveals it is firmly established in several key regions across the globe.

Australia and New Zealand: As the birthplace of The a2 Milk Company, these markets are the most established. A2 Milk® is a brand leader in Australia's fresh liquid milk category, with the product also widely available in New Zealand through a licensing agreement with Fonterra.
Greater China: This is a major growth driver for the international A2 market, especially for infant formula products. Chinese consumers can purchase products via cross-border e-commerce platforms or in over 26,000 domestic retail stores.
North America: The a2 Milk® brand launched in the United States in 2015 and has since experienced significant growth and expanded into Canada through a licensing agreement. Distribution networks have expanded to thousands of stores, including major retailers like Kroger, Walmart, and Whole Foods.
India: A robust domestic market exists in India, leveraging native cow breeds that naturally produce A2 milk. While the market has faced regulatory discussions, the large availability of native breeds provides a strong foundation for domestic production and potential export.
Europe: While market penetration is not as widespread as in Oceania, demand is growing. Countries like Germany, the UK, and France are experiencing an increase in A2 milk and A2 dairy products, particularly for confectionary and bakery applications. The a2 Milk Company formerly operated in the UK but exited in 2019. European brands like Arla Foods and Nestlé also offer A2 dairy options.

Drivers of A2 Milk's Global Expansion

The international market for A2 milk is being propelled by several key factors:

Increasing consumer awareness: A rise in health consciousness and proactive nutrition-seeking behavior is fueling demand for A2 milk.
Perceived digestive benefits: Marketing centers on A2 milk being easier to digest for some individuals sensitive to the A1 protein, which appeals to a growing consumer base.
Market diversification: Beyond fresh milk, A2 products now include infant formula, milk powder, and other dairy goods, expanding the customer base and product applications.
Strategic partnerships and distribution: Companies like The a2 Milk Company forge strategic relationships with local producers and distributors to establish supply chains and market presence, as seen with their agreements with Fonterra in New Zealand.
E-commerce accessibility: Cross-border e-commerce platforms have been particularly effective in reaching consumers in markets like China, driving significant sales growth.

A1 vs. A2 Milk: A Comparative Look


Feature	A1 Milk	A2 Milk
Protein Type	Contains both A1 and A2 beta-casein proteins.	Contains only A2 beta-casein protein.
Common Source	Produced by most conventional cow breeds, such as Holstein and Fresian.	Produced by select cow breeds (e.g., Jersey, Guernsey) or herds genetically tested for the A2/A2 gene.
Digestion	During digestion, it can release a peptide called BCM-7, which has been linked to digestive discomfort in some individuals.	Produces little to no BCM-7 during digestion, which may result in fewer digestive issues for some people.
Market Availability	Wide global availability in standard milk products.	Increasingly available in specific international markets, often at a premium price.
Scientific Consensus	The link between A1 protein and health issues is still debated and not fully conclusive.	Claims of superior digestive health are supported by some research but have also faced challenges.

Challenges and Criticisms in the International Market

Despite its growth, the international A2 milk market is not without hurdles. The scientific basis for the purported digestive benefits has been a point of contention, with some studies failing to find conclusive evidence. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), for example, has stated no causal link is established between A1 protein's BCM-7 peptide and non-communicable diseases. Furthermore, companies promoting A2 milk have faced regulatory scrutiny and advertising challenges in various countries, questioning the substantiation of their health claims. Another significant factor is cost; the selective breeding and testing required to ensure A2 milk purity makes it a premium-priced product, which can limit market reach in cost-sensitive economies.

The Future of A2 Milk Internationally

The trajectory for A2 milk remains focused on expansion and innovation. The a2 Milk Company continues to strengthen its presence in lucrative markets, particularly China and North America, and invests in further product diversification. For other markets, organic and grass-fed A2 milk options are being introduced to appeal to health-conscious consumers seeking sustainable products. The market is also seeing increased competition as more dairy companies, both regional and global, introduce their own A2 variants. The success of future growth will depend on consumer adoption, ongoing research to clarify health benefits, and effective brand strategies that navigate competitive and regulatory landscapes. For more information, see the official a2 Milk Company website at https://thea2milkcompany.com/our-businesses.

Conclusion: A Truly International Product

Ultimately, A2 milk is an international product, with a presence spanning continents and a market driven by a complex mix of health trends, strategic marketing, and evolving consumer preferences. From its origins in New Zealand, it has found a home in the dairies and retail shelves of Australia, China, North America, and beyond. While debates surrounding its precise health advantages continue, its market success and sustained growth underscore its position as a significant and dynamic player in the global dairy industry.

Frequently Asked Questions

A2 milk is available in numerous countries, with major markets including Australia, New Zealand, China, the USA, and Canada. It is also found in emerging markets across Asia and parts of Europe, though market availability can vary by region and brand.

Some people report that A2 milk is easier to digest than regular milk. This is often attributed to the absence of the A1 beta-casein protein, which, during digestion, can produce a peptide (BCM-7) that some believe causes discomfort. However, scientific evidence on this topic is still debated and has received regulatory scrutiny.

The primary difference lies in the beta-casein protein content. A1 milk, typically found in conventional dairy, contains both A1 and A2 beta-casein. A2 milk comes from specially selected cows that naturally produce only the A2 beta-casein protein.

A2 milk is often more expensive due to higher production costs. This includes expenses for genetic testing of herds to ensure A2/A2 protein purity and the logistical costs of maintaining segregated dairy supply chains.

A2 milk still contains lactose, so it is not a substitute for lactose-free milk for those with a medical diagnosis of lactose intolerance. While some people sensitive to dairy proteins find it easier to digest, it is not recommended for severe lactose intolerance.

The a2 Milk Company, founded in New Zealand, is the pioneer and one of the largest international providers of A2 milk and A2-exclusive dairy products, with a significant presence in Australia, New Zealand, China, and North America.

Future trends include continued expansion into new geographic markets, product innovation beyond fresh milk (e.g., yogurt, cheese), and a focus on premium and sustainable offerings, such as grass-fed A2 milk varieties.