Dairy Industry in Azerbaijan

The dairy industry in Azerbaijan represents a substantial part of the nation's agro-economy, fulfilling both domestic consumption needs and playing an increasingly prominent role in international trade.

Milk Production and Dairy Cattle

Azerbaijan boasts an impressive stock of approximately 1.8 million heads of dairy cattle, including cows and buffaloes. The annual milk production volume is about 2.2 million tonnes, reflecting the high productivity and commitment of Azerbaijani dairy farmers.

Milk Processing

The country's annual volume of milk processed is around 1.1 million tonnes, showcasing the industry's capacity to refine raw milk into a wide array of dairy products, both for domestic use and export.

Cheese Production

Azerbaijan's cheese production is a key sector within the dairy industry, with an annual production of approximately 15,000 tonnes. This includes a variety of cheeses, with several being traditional Azerbaijani varieties.

Milk Powder and Whey Production

Milk powder and whey production, although smaller in scale, are vital components of the dairy industry, with a combined annual output of about 5,000 tonnes, serving both local and export markets.

Key Dairy Enterprises

• Atena LLC: A leading dairy company providing a wide range of products such as milk, yogurt, and cheese.
• Milla Dairy: Known for its high-quality milk and cream products.
• Südlü LLC: Specializes in producing cheese and butter.

Dairy Farms

• Gilan Dairy Farms: Engages in both cow and goat milk production.
• Muğan Dairy Farm: A major supplier of raw milk to many processing facilities.
• Shamakhi Dairy Farm: Noted for its sustainability and high milk yields.

Export of Dairy Products

Azerbaijan's dairy export volumes are increasing, with approximately 150,000 tonnes of various dairy products exported annually to markets such as Russia, Georgia, and Moldova.

Import of Dairy Products

To meet diverse consumer preferences, Azerbaijan imports around 100,000 tonnes of dairy products each year, primarily from Belarus, Ukraine, and several EU countries.

Notable Dairy Market Events

Recent notable events include collaborations between Azerbaijan's leading dairy companies and international partners to enhance production technologies and broaden market access. There are also government-backed initiatives aimed at supporting innovation in the dairy sector, which have significantly boosted production, especially in rural communities. Azerbaijan actively participates in regional dairy trade events and exhibitions, bolstering both local trade and international collaborations. Recently, the International Dairy Federation's delegation visited the Milla Dairy Plant, highlighting the industry's global engagement and collaboration potential.

Azerbaijan's dairy industry is characterized by robust production figures, dynamic export-import activities, and continuous improvements in production and processing capabilities. With ongoing developments and government support, the future of the dairy sector in Azerbaijan looks promising. Azerbaijan was a contributor to Russia’s dairy imports.

Modified: 2025/03/10

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