Belarus: A Dairy Industry Powerhouse

Belarus stands out as a prominent player in the global dairy industry, underpinned by a robust infrastructure that supports extensive dairy farming operations. The country is home to approximately 1.5 million dairy cattle, facilitating a significant annual milk production volume of around 7.6 million tons. This highlights the critical role of the dairy sector in Belarus's agricultural economy.

Milk Processing and Cheese Production

Out of the total milk production, approximately 6.2 million tons are processed each year into various value-added dairy products. Notably, Belarus produces around 200,000 tons of cheese annually. The high quality of Belarusian cheeses has gained international recognition, enhancing their reputation in both local and global markets.

Milk Powder and Whey Production

Belarus produces approximately 100,000 tons of milk powder and whey each year. These products are crucial for domestic consumption and serve as significant export items, showcasing Belarus's strategic focus on international markets.

Key Dairy Enterprises and Farms

The Belarusian dairy market is characterized by several key enterprises, including OJSC "Savushkin Product", OJSC "Molochny Mir", and the Danone subsidiary, which is currently undergoing liquidation. Prominent dairy farms such as SPK "Rassvet", SPK "Novogrudsky", and SPK "Priozerny" play a vital role in enhancing the nation’s dairy production and processing capabilities.

Export and Import Activities

Belarus is a formidable exporter of dairy products, with an annual export volume of around 4 million tons. Key markets include Russia, Kazakhstan, and the European Union, underscoring the high quality and competitiveness of Belarusian dairy products. The country imports approximately 500,000 tons of dairy products annually, primarily focusing on specialty items not widely produced domestically.

Significant Events in the Dairy Industry

Recent significant events include the closure of the Danone subsidiary, marking a major industry shift. The strategic export of milk powder to China and the import of whey and ice cream from Russia illustrate Belarus's dynamic market strategies. Notably, in 2024, Belarus experienced a ninefold increase in milk exports, reaching record sales levels. The introduction of industrial Camembert cheese production signifies a major advancement in the country's processing capabilities.

Technological Advancements

The Belarusian dairy industry is increasingly adopting high-tech solutions to enhance efficiency and maintain a competitive edge globally. Initiatives like the 2025 Dairy Olympics discussed by Alexander Evdokimenko aim to expand dairy exports through exchange platforms. In 2024, a 3.8% increase in milk production was achieved despite a decrease in cattle numbers, indicating advancements in productivity and efficiency.

Pilot Projects and Innovations

A pilot dairy farm project based on Belarusian technologies has been launched in the Akmola Region, showcasing the country's commitment to innovation and international collaboration.

In conclusion, Belarus's strategic focus on high-quality production, expansion of export markets, and technological advancements positions it as a key player in the global dairy industry. The recent agreement creates unique competitive conditions for producers from Belarus, further supporting their prominent status on the international stage. Imports of Belarusian food products to Kazakhstan in the first quarter of 2025 increased by 33% year-on-year, with dairy products accounting for a significant share, reaching $37.1 million.

The European Commission had already approved an initiative to impose tariffs on certain agricultural products and fertilizers from Russia and Belarus. The new tariffs will apply to agricultural imports from Belarus as part of the EU's strategy to reduce dependence on supplies from these countries.

Modified: 2025/05/18