Georgia's Dairy Industry Overview

The dairy market in Georgia is a vital component of the country's agricultural sector. With its diverse range of dairy farms and processing facilities, Georgia continues to expand its capacity to produce, process, and export dairy products. The industry is characterized by significant local production and growing export capabilities.

Dairy Cattle and Milk Production

In the most recent year, Georgia reported approximately 195,000 dairy cattle. This substantial figure highlights Georgia's commitment to developing its dairy sector despite challenges such as pasture limitations and the need for modernization in farming practices.

The volume of milk production in Georgia stands at approximately 600 million liters per year. This production level indicates a stable dairy farming environment, focusing on meeting local demand and increasing export possibilities.

Milk Processing and Cheese Production

The milk processing volume in Georgia is around 400 million liters annually, showcasing the country's efforts to enhance value addition in the dairy chain. Key dairy processors are working towards expanding their product range and quality to meet international standards.

Georgia produces about 20,000 metric tons of cheese every year. Cheese production is a core component of Georgia's dairy processing industry, with traditional cheeses like Imeretian and Sulguni being prominent products in the market.

Milk Powder and Whey Production

The production volume of milk powder and whey in Georgia is estimated at about 10,000 metric tons annually. This production caters to both local consumption requirements and export demands, reflecting the sector's adaptability to global market trends.

Key Dairy Enterprises

Significant dairy plants in Georgia include "Sante GMT Products," "Milk Factory," and "Zedazeni." These enterprises are pivotal in processing and distributing dairy products across the region and beyond.

Prominent dairy farms such as "Eco-Farm," "Tbilisi Dairy," and "Lelo Dairy Farm" are contributing substantially to milk production, employing modern farming techniques to enhance productivity and sustainability.

Trade in Dairy Products

Georgia's export volume of dairy products reaches approximately 50 million USD per year. A significant portion is directed towards neighboring countries, which regard Georgian dairy products as high quality.

The import volume of dairy products into Georgia is valued at around 30 million USD annually, primarily driven by demand for specialty cheeses and milk derivatives not domestically produced.

Recent Events in Georgia's Dairy Market

Recently, Georgia has undertaken initiatives to boost the dairy sector's competitiveness, such as introducing subsidies for modern equipment and expanding dairy cooperatives. The focus on export-led growth is underscored by partnerships with international organizations to improve production standards and access new markets.

Modified: 2025/02/22

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