Israel's Dairy Industry: A Comprehensive Overview

Israel stands as a significant contributor to the global dairy sector, known for its cutting-edge agricultural technologies and proficient milk production systems. The country boasts a comprehensive dairy infrastructure, encompassing diverse segments from cattle and goat milk production to extensive processing capacities for a wide range of dairy products.

Key Statistics

• Number of Dairy Cattle: Israel maintains approximately 125,000 dairy cows, attributed to high yields owing to advanced breeding and feeding practices.
• Milk Production Volume: The country produces about 1.5 billion liters of milk annually, reflecting the efficiency and high output of Israeli dairy farms.
• Milk Processing Volume: Israel processes around 1.4 billion liters of milk each year, illustrating the effective transition from raw milk to a variety of processed products.
• Cheese Production Volume: Annually, Israel produces approximately 90,000 tons of cheese, offering a variety from traditional soft cheeses to modern hard types.
• Milk Powder and Whey Production: The country's production of milk powder is estimated at 20,000 tons, while whey products reach around 10,000 tons per year.

Key Enterprises

Dairy Plants

• Tnuva
• Strauss Group
• Tara Dairy
• Gad Dairy

Dairy Farms

• Kibbutz Yotvata Dairy Farm
• Kibbutz Afikim Dairy Farm
• Kibbutz Shamir Dairy Farm

Trade Insights

Export of Dairy Products: Israel exports approximately $250 million annually in dairy products such as cheeses, milk powder, and whey, with primary markets including the United States, China, and the European Union.

Import of Dairy Products: Israel imports around $150 million worth of dairy products yearly. Specialty cheeses and dairy ingredients that are not domestically produced constitute a significant portion of imports.

Significant Events in the Dairy Industry

A hallmark of Israel's dairy industry is its continuous investment in technological advancements. Israeli dairy farms rank among the top globally for productivity, mainly due to innovations in milking and feeding technologies. The industry frequently collaborates with international organizations to elevate global standards and practices.

In 2023, Israel showcased its dairy products at international trade fairs such as Anuga and SIAL, enhancing its international market presence. Significant developments also include the introduction of a locally-tailored packaging for Karums curds snacks, exemption from traditional regulatory requirements under Anexo III, and substantial shipments to Israel. Furthermore, base tariff rates are generally at 10%, though rates can be higher for some countries.

Another notable trend in the Israeli dairy market is the price adjustments announced by major companies like Tnuva, Strauss, and Tara. These adjustments reflect changes in production costs and market conditions.

Through sustained technological progress and strategic international engagements, Israel reinforces its position as a significant player in the global dairy market.

Modified: 2025/05/04

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