Overview of Colombia's Dairy Industry

Colombia's dairy sector is an integral part of its agricultural economy, bolstered by favorable climatic conditions that facilitate both domestic consumption and international trade. This sector not only contributes significantly to the national economy but also supports a large workforce, particularly in rural areas.

Dairy Cattle and Milk Production

With approximately 8 million dairy cattle, Colombia has a robust supply chain for raw milk, producing about 7 billion liters annually. Of this, 4.5 billion liters are processed to meet local and export demands, underlining Colombia's potential in the global dairy market.

Cheese and Milk Powder Production

The country produces around 400,000 tons of cheese and 200,000 tons of milk powder and whey each year, demonstrating its capability to adapt and expand its export potential across various dairy products.

Key Dairy Enterprises

Major companies such as Alquería, Colanta, Laude, Parmalat (part of Lactalis), and Alpina play a central role in maintaining competitiveness and fostering growth within Colombia's dairy industry. These enterprises are crucial for the sector's development and international outreach.

Trade and Market Dynamics

Colombia exports approximately 150,000 tons of dairy products annually to regions including Latin America, Europe, and Asia. To balance specific domestic demands, the country imports about 100,000 tons of dairy products, indicating a dynamic trade environment.

Significant Events and Challenges

Lactalis is expanding its processing capacity while exploring new export opportunities. Government initiatives, such as subsidies and technological advancements, support industry growth. Tariff negotiations with the U.S. influence market dynamics. Although 2024 presented challenges in production and sales, projections for 2025 remain optimistic, expecting the collection of about 3.3 billion liters of raw milk.

Sustainability Efforts

Nestlé Colombia is focusing on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, optimizing water usage, and responsible waste management. Investments in cleaner technologies and sustainable agricultural practices are crucial for the sector's long-term sustainability.

Social and Economic Impact

The livestock sector, including 30 million cattle, generates over 1 million jobs, which are vital for rural development. Despite protests in Boyacá disrupting transportation, the internal market remains stable with growing exports.

Innovations and Strategic Developments

Equslac plans to export lyophilized donkey milk powder, while ALSEC is transforming whey into high-value protein using nanotechnology, enhancing national food sovereignty and innovating within the industry.

Challenges in Milk Quality

Milk adulteration with whey affects quality and consumer trust, despite regulations against such practices. Effective controls are lacking, leading to decreased raw milk purchases and rising inventories, highlighting ongoing challenges.

Local Initiatives

In Caquetá, Cartagena del Chairá pioneers the "Ruta de la Leche" initiative, supporting local economies through agricultural tourism despite geographical challenges.

Cheese Price Increase

The price of cheese in Colombia has seen a significant increase, rising nearly $1,000 in various types such as double cream, mozzarella, country cheese, and skimmed cheese. The primary cause is the low milk production, directly impacting the costs of dairy products.

Caquetá Achieves Exclusive Dairy Certification

El Progreso farm in Caquetá, Colombia, gains a prestigious certification for its A2A2 beta-casein milk production, marking an advancement in Colombian livestock development.

Positioning Colombia's Meat and Milk in International Markets

The campaign aims to project Colombian meat and milk to the world, highlighting sustainability and added value, crucial for new markets. Colombia exported 20,261 tons of meat in the first half of 2025, with China as a leading market.

Buffalo Cheese Production

In El Difícil, a rural area in the Magdalena department of Colombia, producer Mario Antonio Peñaranda turned to buffalo milk to transform his traditional dairy business.

Whole milk powder exports to Colombia accounted for 21.4% of total exports from Chile, making it a key destination for this product.

Modified: 2025/10/09


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