China Ice Cream Market Size and Share Analysis - Growth Trends and Forecast Report 2025-2033

China is among the largest markets for ice cream globally, with consumers showing a preference for both traditional flavors and new, innovative tastes inspired by local ingredients like matcha, red bean, and black sesame. Urbanization, rising demand for convenience foods, and younger generations seeking indulgent experiences contribute to the popularity of ice cream, making it a staple in China's dessert culture.

Growth Drivers in the China Ice Cream Market

Rising Disposable Income

The increasing disposable income among Chinese consumers is a significant growth driver in the ice cream market. As households have more spending power, demand for indulgent and premium products has surged. Consumers will spend more on high-quality ice cream featuring unique flavors, organic ingredients, or innovative packaging. This trend is especially pronounced in urban areas, where middle- and upper-class families seek luxury and convenience in their food choices. Disposable Personal Income in China increased to 51821 CNY in 2023 from 49282.94 CNY in 2022.

Innovation in Flavors and Formats

Innovation in flavors and formats has transformed ice cream consumption in China. Brands are creating unique products incorporating traditional Chinese ingredients like matcha, red bean, and black sesame, appealing to local tastes. Additionally, healthier options like low-fat, low-sugar, or plant-based ice creams attract health-conscious consumers. Novel formats, such as mochi ice cream and artisanal popsicles, are also gaining traction, keeping the market dynamic and competitive. In 2024, Wansheng Food Additives (Shanghai) Co., Ltd., which has been deeply engaged in the food industry for many years, will bring the latest products, technologies, innovative achievements, and more wonderful displays.

Expanding Retail Channels

The proliferation of retail channels, including online platforms, is another key growth driver. E-commerce platforms and food delivery services provide consumers convenient access to ice cream products. Supermarkets, convenience stores, and specialty ice cream shops offer various options, enhancing availability. Seasonal promotions, bundled deals, and targeted marketing through social media also drive higher sales and brand loyalty.

Challenges in the China Ice Cream Market

Rising Competition

The China ice cream market is highly competitive, with numerous domestic and international players vying for market share. Local brands often have the advantage of catering to regional tastes and affordability, while global brands bring premium offerings and established reputations. This intense competition pressures companies to continuously innovate in flavors, packaging, and marketing strategies. Smaller players may need help competing with larger corporations' marketing budgets and supply chain efficiencies, making sustaining growth in such a crowded marketplace challenging.

Health and Wellness Trends

Chinese consumers' growing emphasis on health and wellness challenges traditional ice cream brands. High sugar, fat, and calorie levels in conventional products have led to a shift toward healthier alternatives. Consumers increasingly seek low-calorie, low-sugar, or plant-based ice creams, forcing brands to reformulate recipes and introduce new products. However, achieving the right balance between taste and health benefits can take time and effort, especially for smaller manufacturers with limited resources.

 Ice Cream Consumption Rise in China

In 2022, 98.9% of Chinese consumers enjoyed ice cream, with many preferring it in summer. Notably, 27.3% consume ice cream daily and 37.8% every 2 or 3 days. Ice cream consumption has expanded beyond summer, with over 70% of consumers now buying it in winter. Various flavors and marketing strategies, such as nostalgia marketing and co-branding, have increased ice cream consumption in China.

China Impulse  Ice Cream Market

The impulse section is significant in leading market trends, particularly single-serving items typically packaged in small quantities or sold on sticks. These products specifically cater to the fast-paced lifestyles of Chinese consumers. As urbanization grows and schedules become increasingly busy, the demand for quick and satisfying snack options rises. Impulse ice cream products, in particular, offer immediate gratification that makes them ideal for unplanned purchases and helps satisfy cravings. Additionally, the widespread availability of these items in various retail outlets and their affordability enhance their popularity across different age groups in China.

China Vanilla Ice Cream Market

Vanilla ice cream is a classic flavor that resonates with consumers of various ages and cultural backgrounds. Its neutral taste profile is an adaptable base for many toppings, mix-ins, and flavor combinations, offering countless customization possibilities. Additionally, vanilla's association with high-quality brands enhances its appeal among discerning consumers who seek indulgent and satisfying ice cream experiences. This solidifies vanilla’s position as a Chinese ice cream market staple flavor.

China Tweens and Early Teens Ice Cream Market

The market share of tweens and early teens is increasingly significant as they transition from childhood to their formative years. This demographic seeks greater independence in their food choices, preferring indulgent treats like ice cream. Ice cream's appeal as a fun, social snack resonates well with their desire for novelty and the need for peer approval. Advertising campaigns targeting this age group often focus on specific trends, flavors, and packaging that align with their preferences. This strategic approach reinforces their influence on the evolving patterns of ice cream consumption in China.

China Cones and Cups Ice Cream Market

Cones provide a convenient and portable snack option that aligns well with the fast-paced lifestyle prevalent in China. Similarly, cups allow for a manageable and transportable serving size, making them suitable for various consumption environments. Both formats accommodate diverse flavors and toppings, enhancing the ice cream experience. Additionally, the widespread availability of cones and cups in numerous retail outlets, from street vendors to supermarkets, ensures easy access and plays a significant role in their popularity within the Chinese ice cream market.

China Supermarkets and Hypermarkets Ice Cream Market

Supermarkets and hypermarkets are anticipated to increase their market share in the retail sector. In China, these retail formats significantly drive ice cream consumption and foster innovations within the industry. They provide various product selections, including various ice cream manufacturers, flavors, and formats, catering to diverse consumer preferences.  Their extensive distribution networks ensure that a large customer base can access their offerings, effectively covering urban and rural areas. Additionally, supermarkets and hypermarkets implement strategic promotional activities, including discounts and special offers, to attract customers and enhance sales performance.

East China Ice Cream Market

East China is experiencing notable growth in its ice cream market, primarily due to the economic vitality of cities such as Shanghai and Hangzhou. This region has a large population with increasing disposable incomes, leading to higher spending on premium indulgences like ice cream. Additionally, the urbanization and modernization of East China have resulted in a rise in supermarkets, convenience stores, and specialty dessert shops, providing consumers with easy access to a wide variety of ice cream products. The diverse culinary landscape and the region's openness to global trends have also stimulated demand for innovative flavors and high-quality offerings, further driving the expansion of the ice cream market.

Key Players

Meiji Co., Ltd., General Mills Inc., Yili Group, Unilever, Mondelez International Inc., and Nestlé S.A. are all in the Chinese ice cream market.

In May 2022, Maotai partnered with Mengniu to launch the first Maotai ice cream flagship store at the Maotai International Hotel. On its opening day, the store sold over 5,000 ice creams for 200 thousand RMB within 7 hours. By July 9th, the ice cream had expanded to nine cities and seven provinces, with more than 660 thousand cups sold.

In March 2022, Chinese dairy giant Yili introduced “3D traditional fan ice cream,” which features 3.8 times more protein milk and unique designs with poetic names to stand out from competitors.

Product Type – Market breakup in 3 viewpoints:

1.    Artisanal
2.    Impulse
3.    Take Home

Flavor Type – Market breakup in 4 viewpoints:

1.    Vanilla
2.    Chocolate
3.    Fruit
4.    Others

Age-group – Market breakup in 7 viewpoints:

1.    Kids & Babies
2.    Tweens & Early Teens
3.    Early Young Adults
4.    Older Young Adults
5.    Pre-Mid-Lifers
6.    Mid-Lifers
7.    Older Consumers

Category – Market breakup in 4 viewpoints:

1.    Sticks/Bars
2.    Cones & Cups
3.    Tubs & Bricks
4.    Others

Distribution Channel – Market breakup in 5 viewpoints:

1.    Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
2.    Convenience Store
3.    Specialist Retailers
4.    Online Retail Stores
5.    Others

Region – Market breakup in 6 viewpoints:

1.    East China
2.    South China
3.    North China
4.    West China
5.    Central China
6.    Northeast China

All the Key players have been covered from 3 Viewpoints:

•    Overview
•    Recent Developments
•    Revenue Analysis

Company Analysis:

1.    Meiji co ltd.
2.    General Mills Inc.
3.    Yili Group
4.    Unilever Group
5.    Mondelez International, Inc.
6.    Nestlé SA

Report Details: