Dairy Industry in Iraq: 2023 Overview
The dairy industry in Iraq plays a crucial role in the nation's agriculture sector, characterized by its potential for growth alongside existing challenges. The country is home to approximately 800,000 dairy cattle, contributing significantly to its agricultural output.
Milk Production and Processing
In 2023, Iraq's annual milk production was estimated at 1.2 billion liters. However, only about 650 million liters were processed, indicating a gap in processing capabilities and efficiency. This presents a substantial opportunity for development within the sector to increase the volume of processed milk.
Cheese and Milk Powder Production
Iraq's dairy industry is diverse, producing approximately 60,000 tons of cheese and 30,000 tons of milk powder and whey annually. These products cater to the domestic market and reflect the variety available to Iraqi consumers.
Key Enterprises and Farms
Several key players drive innovation and production in Iraq's dairy industry. Rasan Dairy Goat is known for its unique dairy offerings, while the Najaf Dairy Company is a major processor and distributor. Baghdad Dairy Corporation also plays a significant role in processing milk for local and regional markets. Prominent farms like Al-Mosul Dairy Farm and Basra Green Farm focus on cattle dairy farming and sustainable practices, contributing to the industry's growth.
Exports and Imports
In 2023, Iraq exported around 50 million USD worth of dairy products, mainly to neighboring regions. Despite this, the country imported 150 million USD worth of dairy products, reflecting a substantial domestic demand for diverse offerings. Notably, Iraq was a major importer of Iranian dairy products, accounting for nearly 40% of such imports during the period. In 2024, Iraq also imported 20,000 tons of whole fresh milk, emphasizing its role as a key importer in the Middle East.
Market Events and Trends
One notable market event is Rasan Dairy Goat's participation in an upcoming regional dairy expo, where it aims to showcase innovative products and reinforce its market presence. Additionally, Iraq's demand for live animals has contributed to the growth of live animal exports from Colombia, which reached USD 101.2 million. These trends underline the dynamic nature of Iraq's dairy industry and its interconnectedness with global markets.
Iraq is also a main importer of Russian veterinary vaccines, indicating the country's focus on maintaining animal health and productivity.
Modified: 2025/10/31