Overview of Colombia's Dairy Industry

Colombia's dairy sector is a key component of its agricultural framework, supported by advantageous climatic conditions and an efficient supply chain that caters to both local and international markets.

Dairy Cattle

Colombia is home to approximately 8 million dairy cattle spread across various regions, providing a robust foundation for the country's reliable dairy production capabilities.

Milk Production and Processing

Annually, Colombia produces around 7 billion liters of milk, with 4.5 billion liters processed to ensure a stable supply for both domestic consumption and export markets. The processing sector is essential for the industry's stability.

Cheese and Milk Powder Production

The country produces about 400,000 tons of cheese every year. Additionally, the production of milk powder and whey amounts to approximately 200,000 tons, catering to domestic needs and export demands.

Key Dairy Enterprises

Leading companies in the Colombian dairy industry include Alquería, Colanta, Laude, Parmalat (under Lactalis), and Alpina. These organizations are crucial for maintaining competitiveness and promoting industry growth.

Prominent Dairy Farms

Key farms contributing to Colombia's milk production include Hacienda San José, La Esperanza Farm, Granja La Margarita, El Rodeo Farm, and Finca San Rafael.

Trade and Market Dynamics

Colombia exports around 150,000 tons of dairy products annually to Latin America, Europe, and Asia, while importing about 100,000 tons to meet specific domestic demands.

Significant Events

Lactalis is expanding its processing capacities and export opportunities.
Government initiatives, including subsidies and technological advancements, support industry development.
Tariff negotiations with the U.S. concerning powdered milk and cheese exports are influential in market dynamics.
The Bolsa Mercantil of Colombia has launched a new auction cycle to balance milk product supply and demand.
Recent changes in the milk payment system by the Ministry of Agriculture are impacting producers.

Current Challenges and Future Outlook

In 2024, the Colombian dairy sector faced challenges such as declines in production, sales, and employment. However, projections for 2025 are optimistic, with expectations to collect approximately 3.3 billion liters of raw milk. Despite regulatory challenges, the sector is experiencing growth in international sales and a reduction in bonuses for ranchers.

The use of lactoserum as a milk substitute remains debated. The National Dairy Council announced a 5.36% increase in the base milk price, supporting rural development. Colombia is the second-largest exporter of livestock genetics in Latin America, underscoring its agricultural impact.

Lactalis is involved in legal disputes regarding the addition of whey to milk products in Colombia. The cattle export sector saw significant growth in early 2025 due to increased sales to key international markets.

Chocontá is expanding its milk production capabilities with regional support, bolstering the industry's strength. However, the rise in imported powdered milk and dairy products poses a threat to local farmers, affecting the entire sector. Consumption of fluid milk is declining, while other dairy products like yogurts, cheeses, and butters are gaining popularity. The per capita fluid milk consumption fell from 142 liters annually in 2016 to about 132 liters in 2023, indicating opportunities for diversification with artisanal cheeses, functional yogurts, and fortified beverages.

Colombian livestock, particularly dairy farming, faces numerous challenges. The cooperative model offers hope, integrating over 500 families into productive networks and achieving significant economic, social, and infrastructural advancements.

Modified: 2025/05/18