Cuba's Dairy Market Overview
The dairy industry in Cuba forms a vital component of the country's agricultural sector, providing essential nutrition and employment opportunities. Despite facing economic constraints and the impact of longstanding embargoes, Cuba is committed to enhancing its dairy production and processing capabilities.
Dairy Cattle and Milk Production
Cuba's dairy cattle population stands at approximately 1 million head. The nation produces around 500 million liters of milk annually, with ongoing efforts to boost cattle productivity through improved breeding and feed management practices.
Milk Processing and Product Manufacture
Annually, about 400 million liters of milk are processed in Cuba. The country produces roughly 2,000 metric tons of cheese each year. However, the production of milk powder and whey remains limited, with a combined output of approximately 500 metric tons annually.
Key Dairy Enterprises
- Empresa Complejo Lácteo de La Habana
- Empresa de Productos Lácteos Ciego de Ávila
- Lácteo Río Zaza
Significant Dairy Farms
- Valle del Perú Farm
- La Victoria Cooperative
- Las Vegas Farm
Trade: Exports and Imports
Due to local production constraints, Cuba imports around 250 million liters of dairy products annually. These imports mainly consist of milk powder and other essential dairy commodities to satisfy domestic needs. Exports are minimal, targeting niche markets.
Recent Events in the Dairy Sector
A significant recent development was the collaboration between Cuba and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) to improve dairy production efficiency and sustainability. Additionally, bilateral discussions with countries such as India may facilitate technology transfer and investment, contributing to the growth of Cuba's dairy sector. These initiatives reflect a positive trend toward increasing local production and reducing import dependency over time.
Furthermore, Cuba is a notable market for Chilean whole milk powder, accounting for 10.5% of exports, with the sector experiencing substantial growth.
Modified: 2025/09/23