Dairy Industry in Belarus

Belarus is recognized as a prominent entity in the global dairy industry, boasting a substantial infrastructure and expansive dairy farms. The country maintains a herd of approximately 1.5 million dairy cows, contributing significantly to its annual milk production of about 7.6 million tons. This production level underscores the vital role of the dairy sector in Belarus's agricultural economy.

Milk Processing and Cheese Production

Belarus processes approximately 6.2 million tons of milk annually into various value-added products. The production of cheese, an important segment, amounts to around 200,000 tons each year, gaining international recognition for its quality.

Production of Milk Powder and Whey

The production of milk powder and whey is another critical aspect of Belarus's dairy industry, with annual outputs reaching about 100,000 tons. These products are crucial for both domestic consumption and export, highlighting the country's strategic orientation towards international markets.

Key Enterprises and Farms

Several key enterprises, such as OAO "Savushkin Produkt" and OAO "Moloko Mir," are pivotal in the market. Large dairy farms like SPC "Rassvet" significantly bolster Belarus's production capacities.

Export and Import Activities

Belarus is a leading 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 imports approximately 500,000 tons of dairy products each year.

Significant Events in the Dairy Industry

Several significant events have shaped Belarus's dairy industry, such as the closure of Danone's subsidiary and the strategic export of milk powder to China. In 2024, milk exports increased ninefold, marking a record achievement.

Technological Advancements

The Belarusian dairy sector is actively embracing high-tech solutions to enhance efficiency. Notably, in 2024, milk production increased by 3.8% despite a reduction in livestock numbers.

Regulatory and Market Challenges

The European Commission's imposition of tariffs on agricultural imports from Belarus and President Alexander Lukashenko's proposal to introduce criminal liability for cattle deaths are indicative of the regulatory and market challenges faced by the industry.

Trade Relations and Market Dynamics

Belarus maintains strong trade relations with Russia and Kazakhstan. In the first quarter of 2025, imports of Belarusian products to Kazakhstan increased by 33%. However, the industry faces challenges, such as the proliferation of counterfeit dairy products in the market.

International Relations

Belarus has strengthened agricultural ties with Myanmar, hosting the first meeting of the Belarus-Myanmar Joint Working Group on Agriculture in September 2025. Belarusian dry dairy exports to Myanmar quadrupled from January to July 2025.

CIS Council of Heads of Government Meeting

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

Belarusian Dairy Exports to Egypt

The agricultural trade with Egypt saw a significant increase in 2024, with the trade volume doubling through increased dairy product exports.

Import of Belarusian Products to Russia

Belarusian dairy products are imported into Russia's Ivanovo region, with butter being in high demand. Belarusian products dominate 94% of dairy imports in Russia, highlighting its influence and capability to meet Russia's dairy needs.

Key Importer of Russian Cheese and Curd

Belarus consistently contributes significantly to the external sales of Russian cheese and curd, nearing the completion of an extensive livestock modernization program.

Belarus as an Export Destination

Belarus is a major export destination for Kazakhstan's ice cream, benefiting from shared consumer tastes within the EAEU.

Modern Dairy Complexes and Future Plans

Modern dairy complexes ensure approximately 80% of the total milk production. In 2025, Belarus earned a record of $10 billion from food exports, with dairy products as a key category. Plans are underway to construct around 48 new modern dairy complexes in 2026.

Market Prices and Trade Regulations

Belarus has adjusted its minimum export prices for milk and cream for most foreign markets, reflecting strategic pricing decisions to maintain competitiveness in international markets.

Modified: 2026/04/26