Dairy Industry in Belarus

Belarus is recognized as a leader in the global dairy industry due to its strong infrastructure and extensive dairy farms. The country is home to approximately 1.5 million dairy cows, contributing to an annual milk production of about 7.6 million tons. This underscores the vital role of the dairy sector in Belarus's agricultural economy.

Milk Processing and Cheese Production

Of the total milk production, around 6.2 million tons are processed annually into various value-added products. Belarus produces approximately 200,000 tons of cheese each year, which is internationally acclaimed for its high quality.

Production of Milk Powder and Whey

Belarus produces about 100,000 tons of milk powder and whey annually. These products are crucial for both domestic consumption and export, emphasizing the country's strategic focus on international markets.

Key Enterprises and Farms

Prominent enterprises such as OAO "Savushkin Produkt" and OAO "Moloko Mir" stand out in the market. Large dairy farms like SPC "Rassvet" play a significant role in bolstering production capacities.

Export and Import Activities

Belarus is a major exporter of dairy products, with an export volume of around 4 million tons annually. The primary markets include Russia, Kazakhstan, and the EU. The country also imports approximately 500,000 tons of dairy products each year.

Significant Events in the Dairy Industry

The closure of Danone's subsidiary and the strategic export of milk powder to China illustrate Belarus's dynamic market strategies. In 2024, milk exports increased ninefold, marking a record achievement.

Technological Advancements

The Belarusian dairy industry is actively adopting high-tech solutions to enhance efficiency. In 2024, milk production grew by 3.8% despite a reduction in livestock numbers.

Regulatory and Market Challenges

The European Commission imposed tariffs on agricultural imports from Belarus, and President Alexander Lukashenko proposed introducing criminal liability for cattle deaths. These measures emphasize improving animal welfare and productivity.

Trade Relations and Market Dynamics

Belarus maintains strong trade relations with Russia and Kazakhstan, traditionally supplying butter. Imports of Belarusian products to Kazakhstan increased by 33% in the first quarter of 2025. Belarus remains a key participant in the Eurasian Economic Union but faces challenges related to the rise of counterfeit dairy products in the market.

International Relations

Belarus and Myanmar have strengthened their agricultural ties. On September 30, 2025, Belarus hosted the first meeting of the Belarus-Myanmar Joint Working Group on Agriculture. Belarusian dry dairy exports to Myanmar quadrupled from January to July 2025, including whole and skimmed milk powders, whey, butter, and cheese.

CIS Council of Heads of Government Meeting

A meeting of the CIS Council of Heads of Government in Minsk resulted in several documents, including three key decisions in veterinary medicine aimed at enhancing epizootic welfare in the region.

Belarusian Dairy Exports to Egypt

Belarus noted a significant increase in agricultural trade with Egypt, doubling trade volume in 2024 through increased dairy product exports.

Import of Belarusian Products to Russia

Belarusian dairy products are imported into Russia's Ivanovo region via the Belarusian Universal Commodity Exchange. Butter is in the highest demand, accounting for 73% of the total value and 48% of the volume of all dairy product purchases. The remainder includes skimmed and whole milk powders, dry whey, and cottage cheese. These figures were presented by a BUTB representative during a meeting with a business delegation from the Ivanovo region at the Moscow House in Minsk.

Belarusian products dominate 94% of dairy imports in Russia, highlighting Belarus's significant influence and ability to meet Russia's dairy needs.

Key Importer of Russian Cheese and Curd

Belarus consistently provides the main volume of external sales of Russian cheese and curd. The country is nearing the completion of an extensive program to modernize livestock facilities. By the end of 2025, 21 dairy enterprises will be operational, according to the Ministry of Agriculture and Food. Belarus already achieves self-sufficiency in milk at 292%, with a quarter of all produced products being exported.

Modified: 2025/11/12