Overview of Colombia's Dairy Industry

Colombia's dairy industry is a cornerstone of its agricultural sector, with a robust infrastructure supporting both milk production and processing. The country has a significant number of dairy cattle, contributing to the substantial annual milk production. The industry is marked by notable expansions, including the recent move by Lactalis, a leading French dairy conglomerate, to significantly expand its operations in Colombia.

Number of Dairy Cattle

As of the latest data, Colombia boasts approximately 8 million dairy cattle. The diverse and resilient breeds of cattle are well-suited to the varying climatic conditions across the country, ensuring steady milk production throughout the year.

Milk Production Volume

In the past year, Colombia's milk production volume reached around 7 billion liters. This marks a steady increase over previous years, driven by advancements in farming practices and the introduction of more productive cattle breeds.

Milk Processing Volume

The volume of milk processed annually in Colombia stands at approximately 4.5 billion liters. This processing capability is bolstered by the presence of several major dairy processing plants across the country.

Cheese Production Volume

Cheese production in Colombia is an important segment of the dairy industry, with an annual production volume of close to 400,000 tons. The variety of cheeses produced in Colombia reflects its rich culinary heritage and growing domestic and international demand.

Milk Powder and Whey Production Volume

Colombia produces roughly 200,000 tons of milk powder and whey annually. This production supports both domestic consumption and export needs, showcasing the country's growing capacity in dairy refinement and its strategic importance in the international market.

Key Dairy Enterprises

Colombia's dairy market features several key enterprises, including:

• Alquería
• Colanta
• Laude
• Parmalat (a subsidiary of Lactalis)
• Alpina

The recent announcement of Lactalis's significant expansion further adds to the competitive and dynamic nature of the Colombian dairy industry.

Dairy Farms

Prominent dairy farms contributing to Colombia's dairy sector include:

• Hacienda San José
• La Esperanza Farm
• Granja La Margarita
• El Rodeo Farm
• Finca San Rafael

Export of Dairy Products

The export volume of dairy products from Colombia is approximately 150,000 tons annually. Key export markets include neighboring Latin American countries and increasingly, regions in Europe and Asia.

Import of Dairy Products

Colombia imports around 100,000 tons of dairy products each year to meet domestic demand, particularly for specialized products not widely produced locally.

Significant Events in Colombia's Dairy Market

A key event in the Colombian dairy industry is the expansion of Lactalis's operations. This move is set to enhance processing capabilities, introduce new dairy products, and potentially open new export markets. Furthermore, the government's ongoing efforts to support the dairy sector through subsidies and technological advancements have been pivotal in driving growth and competitiveness within the industry.

Another noteworthy development is Colombia's threat to impose tariffs on U.S. powdered milk exports, indicating Colombia's commitment to protecting and promoting its domestic dairy industry.

Modified: 2024/10/08

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