Armenia's Dairy Industry: An Overview

Armenia is recognized for its vibrant dairy sector, which plays a significant role in its agricultural economy. The industry includes both large-scale dairy farms and numerous small household producers, contributing to the overall dairy supply.

Volume of Milk Production

Armenia produces approximately 750 million liters of milk annually. This strong production is essential for meeting domestic consumption demands and supports the nation’s dairy processing sector.

Number of Dairy Cattle

The country is home to around 157,000 dairy cattle. These herds are spread across various regions, contributing to a diversified and resilient dairy farming ecosystem.

Number of Dairy Goats

Armenia also has a modest number of dairy goats, estimated at about 50,000. Goat milk and related products form a niche but essential part of the dairy market.

Milk Processing Volume

The dairy industry processes approximately 500 million liters of milk per year. This processing capacity ensures that a wide range of dairy products are available to consumers.

Cheese Production Volume

Cheese is a significant dairy product in Armenia, with an annual production volume of around 30,000 metric tons. Various types of cheese, including traditional Armenian cheeses, are produced and enjoyed both locally and internationally.

Production Volume of Milk Powder and Whey

Armenia produces approximately 5,000 metric tons of milk powder and whey combined each year. These products are essential for both commercial food production and export markets.

Key Dairy Enterprises

• Ashtarak Kat LLC: One of the leading dairy processing companies in Armenia, known for its wide range of dairy products including milk, cheese, and yogurt.
• Tamara Ltd: Specializes in traditional Armenian cheeses and exports to various countries.
• Bonilat CJSC: A major player in milk and yogurt production, contributing significantly to the domestic dairy market.

Notable Dairy Farms

• Artashat Dairy Farm: A significant contributor to the local milk supply, known for its high-quality milk production.
• Lusavor Farm: Engages in both cattle and goat milk production, catering to niche markets in Armenia.

Export of Dairy Products

Armenia exports approximately 10,000 metric tons of dairy products annually. Key export items include cheese, milk powder, and traditional Armenian dairy products, primarily to neighboring countries such as Russia and Georgia.

Import of Dairy Products

The country imports around 3,000 metric tons of dairy products each year to supplement domestic supply, especially during peak demand periods. Major import items include butter, cheese, and milk powder.

Significant Events in Armenia's Dairy Industry

A noteworthy upcoming event in Armenia's dairy market is the adoption of new labeling standards for dairy and meat products. These new regulations aim to provide clearer information to consumers, ensuring better transparency and helping to make more informed purchasing decisions.

Notably, Moldova and Armenia have been significant recipients of fermented dairy products, including buttermilk.

Modified: 2024/10/08

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