A cheese from Cuenca, crowned in Rome as the Best International Sheep's Cheese, opens new export avenues

International recognition

The 24-month aged cheese from Quesos Villarejo has received the highest recognition in the international sheep cheese category at the Concorso Internazionale Premio Roma 2026. This recognition not only rewards the quality of the product, but also reinforces the 'Marca España' (Brand Spain) and serves as a success story for the internationalization of agri-food SMEs.

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A sheep's cheese from the province of Cuenca has received the highest award in Romabeing chosen as the Best International Sheep's CheeseThis award, presented in the heart of Italia, represents a key boost for the export of high value-added Spanish agri-food products and a success story for the Marca España.

The selection, made in the Italian capital, one of the most demanding markets with the longest cheese-making tradition in EuropaThis award places this product from Cuenca among the global gastronomic elite. For the Spanish export sector, these kinds of accolades are a first-rate commercial tool, as they validate quality and excellence against international competitors and facilitate penetration into niche markets. .

The impact of the award beyond recognition

Beyond prestige, the award has direct implications for international business strategy. An award of this caliber can act as a "passport" to access distributors. premium and high-end chains in mature markets such as Estados Unidos, Japón or the Nordic countries.

This success underscores the importance of differentiation through quality in a sector as competitive as agri-food. Artisanal production, careful handling of raw materials, and respect for tradition become tangible assets that allow an SME of Cuenca To compete and succeed on the world stage, demonstrating that size is not an impediment to export excellence.

Value strategy and opportunities for the sector

The case of this cheese Cuenca It is a prime example of the transition in the Spanish agri-food sector: moving from exporting volume to exporting value. Marca España This advantage is reinforced every time a national product is recognized for its superior quality, which also benefits other producers seeking to expand internationally. The key lies in effectively communicating these achievements and associating them with a geographical origin and a unique production history.

For other companies in the sector, this milestone opens a strategic reflection on participation in international competitions and investment in quality certifications as a means of internationalization. The strategic value of an award of this caliber is detailed below.

Strategic Area	Impact of the International Award	Opportunity for Exporters
Marketing and Branding	Validate product quality to international customers and distributors, creating a narrative of excellence.	Use the award in all marketing materials to justify a positioning premium.
Market Access	It functions as a credential that opens doors in selective distribution channels and demanding markets.	Accelerate negotiations with importers seeking differentiated and award-winning products.
Commercial Negotiation	It strengthens the company's negotiating position, allowing it to defend higher prices and better conditions.	It reduces dependence on price-based competition and focuses it on added value.

Key points and frequently asked questions about the impact of international awards

How does this award affect other Spanish agri-food exporters?

Positively. It reinforces the perception of España as a food producer of high quality. This "halo effect" can facilitate the entry of other Spanish products, from wines to oils or hams, into international markets that value certified excellence.

What direct business consequences does this have for the winning producer?

The most immediate consequence is an increase in demand and interest from importers. In the medium term, it allows the company to strengthen its brand, access new markets with an impeccable presentation, and potentially increase its profit margins by positioning itself in the high-end market segment.

What lesson should exporting SMEs learn from this case?

The main lesson is that investing in quality and actively participating in the international awards and trade fair circuit is a highly profitable internationalization strategy. It's not just about producing good products, but about knowing how to demonstrate and communicate that quality in the right forums to capture the attention of the global buyer.