Dairy Industry in Jamaica: An Overview

The dairy industry in Jamaica is an important sector contributing to the country's agricultural output. Recent initiatives indicate promising growth, as witnessed by the launch of a $20 million equipment lease program aimed at boosting productivity and efficiency among local dairy farmers.

Key Data on Jamaica's Dairy Market

Dairy Cattle Population

Currently, Jamaica has approximately 25,000 dairy cattle. These include various breeds that are well-suited to the tropical climate of the island.

Milk Production Volume

Jamaica produces around 13 million liters of milk annually. The country's milk production has been relatively stable, with initiatives aimed at increasing this figure.

Milk Processing Volume

The milk processing volume in Jamaica is estimated to be around 10 million liters per year, covering a range of processed dairy products.

Cheese Production Volume

Cheese is a popular dairy product in Jamaica, with an estimated annual production volume of 1 million kg.

Milk Powder and Whey Production

The production of milk powder and whey is limited, with approximately 500,000 kg produced yearly. This is mainly for local consumption and limited export.

Dairy Farms and Plants

List of Dairy Farms

• Nutramix Dairy Farm
• Newport Genetics
• St. Elizabeth Dairy Co-op

List of Dairy Plants

• Serge Island Dairies
• Jamaica Dairy Development Board processing facility

Trade in Dairy Products

Export Volume

Jamaica exports approximately 750,000 kg of dairy products annually, focusing on niche markets in the Caribbean region and overseas.

Import Volume

To satisfy local demand, Jamaica imports around 5 million kg of dairy products each year, mainly from the United States and other nearby countries.

Recent Developments in Jamaica's Dairy Industry

The government's implementation of a $20 million equipment lease program is a significant development, aimed directly at enhancing the productivity and efficiency of the dairy sector. This program is expected to empower local farmers by providing access to modern equipment, which should lead to improvements in milk yield and quality across the island.

Overall, these efforts signify a focused approach to bolstering Jamaica's dairy industry, ensuring it remains competitive and sustainable in the long run.

Modified: 2025/02/05

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