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Dairy Industry in Honduras: An Overview

Honduras, a key member of the Central American Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA), is increasingly recognized for its expanding dairy market within Central America. This involvement with CAFTA helps in facilitating easier trade flows with the United States and adjacent countries, crucial for the economic and trade growth of the Honduran dairy sector.

Key Figures in the Honduran Dairy Sector

Number of Dairy Cattle: Approximately 580,000
Milk Production Volume: Around 750 million liters per year
Milk Processing Volume: Estimated at 260 million liters per year
Cheese Production Volume: Nearly 34,000 metric tons per year
Milk Powder and Whey Production: Data not specifically recorded but assumed minimal compared to other dairy exports

Dairy Plants and Farms

Honduras hosts several key dairy establishments fundamental to its dairy production and processing:

Lácteos de Honduras (LACTHOSA): A leading enterprise offering a comprehensive range of dairy products across the nation.
Productos Lácteos Sula: Known for its extensive production of milk and cheese, key products in local and export markets.
Cooperativa de Leche Dos Pinos: Significant for its expansion in the Central American region including Honduras.

Exports and Imports

Trade remains pivotal to Honduras' dairy economy:

Export of Dairy Products: Approximately worth $40 million per year, primarily to regional markets.
Import of Dairy Products: Estimated at $25 million annually, focusing mainly on specialized milk derivatives and cheese varieties not produced locally in significant quantities.

Key Events and Developments

The dairy market in Honduras is experiencing continual evolution with the following developments:

The signing of CAFTA has notably led to increased market access, allowing for more competitive pricing and broader availability of varied dairy products.
Efforts to modernize production facilities aiming to boost both efficiency and product quality are ongoing, further solidifying Honduran dairy’s position in regional markets.
Government-supported initiatives aimed at enhancing local farmers' production capabilities keep enhancing the quality and quantity of milk produced domestically.

This detailed data unveils the progressive landscape of the Honduran dairy sector, highlighting its promising trajectory bolstered by international trade agreements and local industry enhancements.

Modified: 2025/02/04