Dairy Industry in Azerbaijan

The dairy industry in Azerbaijan represents a critical component of the country's agro-economy, substantially contributing to both domestic consumption needs and international trade.

Milk Production and Dairy Cattle

Azerbaijan has an impressive stock of dairy cattle, with approximately 1.8 million heads of dairy cattle, encompassing both cows and buffaloes. The nation's annual milk production volume is around 2.2 million tonnes, indicating the high productivity and dedication of Azerbaijani dairy farmers.

Milk Processing

The annual volume of milk processed in Azerbaijan is approximately 1.1 million tonnes. This processing capacity highlights the important role of refining raw milk into a range of dairy products for domestic consumption and export.

Cheese Production

Azerbaijan's cheese production is a significant sector within the dairy industry, with an annual output of about 15,000 tonnes. This includes traditional Azerbaijani cheeses alongside other varieties.

Milk Powder and Whey Production

Though smaller in scale compared to other segments, milk powder and whey production remain pivotal. Their combined annual production volume stands at an estimated 5,000 tonnes, catering to both local and export markets.

Key Dairy Enterprises

• Atena LLC: A leading dairy company in Azerbaijan, Atena LLC offers a diverse range of products, including milk, yogurt, and cheese.
• Milla Dairy: Known for high-quality milk and cream products.
• Südlü LLC: An important player in producing cheese and butter.

Dairy Farms

• Gilan Dairy Farms: Focuses on both cow and goat milk production.
• Muğan Dairy Farm: A primary provider of raw milk to numerous processing facilities in the region.
• Shamakhi Dairy Farm: Notable for its sustainable practices and high milk yields.

Export of Dairy Products

Azerbaijan's dairy export volumes are on the rise, with approximately 150,000 tonnes of different dairy products shipped annually. Major markets include Russia, Georgia, Moldova, and beyond.

Import of Dairy Products

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

Notable Dairy Market Events

A landmark event in recent years is the collaboration between Azerbaijan's top dairy companies and international counterparts to enhance production technologies and expand market access. Additionally, government-backed initiatives supporting dairy sector innovation have led to significant growth, notably in rural communities. Azerbaijan actively engages in regional dairy trade events and exhibitions, boosting local trade and international partnerships.

Conclusively, Azerbaijan's dairy industry is a robust and progressive segment characterized by substantial production figures, dynamic export-import activities, and continuous enhancements in production and processing capabilities. With ongoing developments and government backing, the future of the dairy sector in Azerbaijan appears promising.

Notably, the International Dairy Federation's delegation recently visited the Milla Dairy Plant, underscoring the industry's global engagement and collaboration potential.

Modified: 2025/02/05

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