Georgia's Dairy Industry Overview
The dairy market in Georgia plays a vital role in the agricultural sector, with a focus on expanding its production, processing, and export capabilities. The country is known for its diverse dairy farms and processing facilities, which contribute significantly to both local consumption and export markets.
Dairy Cattle and Milk Production
Georgia is home to approximately 195,000 dairy cattle, reflecting the country's commitment to enhancing its dairy sector. Despite challenges such as pasture limitations and the need for modernization, Georgia produces about 600 million liters of milk annually. This stable production environment caters to local demand and supports export growth.
Milk Processing and Cheese Production
The milk processing volume in Georgia is around 400 million liters per year. Key processors are working to diversify product offerings and elevate quality standards to international levels. Traditional Georgian cheeses, such as Imeretian and Sulguni, contribute to the annual production of about 20,000 metric tons of cheese.
Milk Powder and Whey Production
With an annual production of approximately 10,000 metric tons of milk powder and whey, Georgia addresses both local consumption and export demands. This flexibility showcases the sector's ability to adapt to global market trends.
Key Dairy Enterprises
Prominent dairy enterprises like "Sante GMT Products," "Milk Factory," and "Zedazeni" are central to processing and distributing dairy products regionally and internationally. Major dairy farms such as "Eco-Farm," "Tbilisi Dairy," and "Lelo Dairy Farm" are at the forefront of employing modern farming techniques to boost productivity and sustainability.
Trade in Dairy Products
Georgia's dairy product export volume is valued at around 50 million USD annually, with significant exports to neighboring countries that appreciate the high quality of Georgian products. Imports are valued at approximately 30 million USD per year, mainly consisting of specialty cheeses and milk derivatives not produced domestically.
Recent Events in Georgia's Dairy Market
Recent initiatives in Georgia aim to enhance the competitiveness of the dairy sector, including subsidies for modern equipment and the expansion of dairy cooperatives. The focus on export-led growth is supported by partnerships with international organizations to improve production standards and access new markets. An anticipated 10% tariff from most post-Soviet countries could impact trade dynamics. The National Food Agency of Georgia confirms compliance with safety standards.
ATENA is one of the companies exporting its products from Georgia, actively participating in international exhibitions to explore market opportunities in other countries.
Modified: 2025/05/18