Asia’s largest dairy company held first place, growing its brand value by 29% to $14.5 billion
Yili, Asia’s largest dairy company, has retained its position as the world’s most valuable dairy brand, with brand value up 29% to $14.5 billion (USD), per Brand Finance’s Food & Drink Report 2026, DairyReporter reports.
«Brand value» is the net economic benefit an owner would gain by licensing the brand on the open market; the top 10 global dairy brands are together worth $50.8 billion.
What drove Yili’s growth
Yili’s momentum spanned everyday milk products to higher-value nutritional segments. Its diversified portfolio (liquid milk, milk powder, ice cream and nutritional products) let it «respond to evolving consumer demand for healthier and more functional dairy options», while investment in adult nutrition and health-oriented products «further supports its long-term positioning».
The rest of the top 10 and wider context
Amul (India) is the world’s strongest dairy brand with a Brand Strength Index (BSI) of 93/100 in the Dairy 10 ranking. Mengniu (China) rose 26% to $6 billion; Arla recorded the fastest growth, up 39% to $3.4 billion; and Vietnam’s Vinamilk remains among the strongest globally at BSI 89.6/100.
In non-alcoholic drinks, Coca-Cola (down 1% to $46.1 billion) stayed the most valuable brand, but China’s Nongfu Spring (up 38% to $15.3 billion) now leads.
«After two years in which price increases led to revenue growth without meaningful increase in profitability, brands now need to show where long-term value will come from», said Henry Farr of Brand Finance, adding that diversification will matter more «as trends such as GLP-1 weight-loss drugs begin to reshape consumer demand».
Source: DairyReporter
