Dairy Industry Overview in Azerbaijan

The dairy industry in Azerbaijan plays a vital role in the country's agricultural framework, providing essential nutrition to its population and significantly contributing to the economy through exports.

Milk Production and Dairy Cattle

Azerbaijan is home to approximately 1.8 million heads of dairy cattle, including cows and buffaloes. This robust livestock foundation supports an annual milk production of around 2.2 million tonnes, demonstrating the dedication and efficiency of Azerbaijani dairy farmers.

Milk Processing

The country processes about 1.1 million tonnes of milk annually, transforming raw milk into a diverse range of dairy products for both domestic consumption and export.

Cheese Production

Annually, Azerbaijan's cheese sector produces approximately 15,000 tonnes, offering a mix of international styles alongside cherished traditional local varieties.

Milk Powder and Whey Production

Each year, the country produces about 5,000 tonnes of milk powder and whey, catering to both local demands and export markets.

Key Dairy Enterprises

• Atena LLC: A leading entity offering a wide array of dairy products, including milk, yogurt, and cheese.
• Milla Dairy: Renowned for its premium quality milk and cream offerings.
• Südlü LLC: Specializes in cheese and butter production.

Dairy Farms

• Gilan Dairy Farms: Engages in both cow and goat milk production.
• Muğan Dairy Farm: A critical supplier of raw milk to processing facilities.
• Shamakhi Dairy Farm: Recognized for sustainable practices and high yields.

Export of Dairy Products

Azerbaijan exports approximately 150,000 tonnes of dairy products annually to key markets such as Russia, Georgia, and Moldova.

Import of Dairy Products

The country imports about 100,000 tonnes of dairy products each year from Belarus, Ukraine, and EU nations, satisfying the diverse tastes of its consumers.

Notable Dairy Market Events

The Azerbaijani dairy market has been marked by international collaborations aimed at enhancing production technologies and expanding market access. Government initiatives have bolstered innovation, particularly in rural areas, with the country regularly participating in regional trade showcases. A notable event was the International Dairy Federation's delegation visit to Milla Dairy, underscoring Azerbaijan's commitment to integrating with the global dairy industry.

Azerbaijan's dairy industry is on a promising trajectory, characterized by substantial production, dynamic trade, and continuous enhancement of processing capabilities, heavily supported by state initiatives and innovations. The upcoming Dairy Rally 2025 will further highlight the country's potential, providing insights into key enterprises and the HoReCa and ready-to-eat food markets. In 2023, Azerbaijan imported over 50,000 tonnes of dairy products, presenting clear opportunities for exporters while local production continues to grow.

The DairyRally road trip across Azerbaijan will allow participants to visit key sites in the country's dairy industry, including the Zəhmət Ruzi MMC plant, the Milla dairy factory, and the Yalama Aqropark farm. Participants will explore key dairy and livestock facilities in Azerbaijan. On the third day of the Dairy Rally road trip across Azerbaijan, participants will visit various dairy plants showcasing production diversification and high technological maturity.

Modified: 2025/05/18

---