Dairy Industry in Kyrgyzstan: An In-Depth Analysis

The dairy industry in Kyrgyzstan is an integral part of the country's agricultural sector, contributing significantly to the national economy. Recent years have witnessed considerable growth in this sector, driven by increased production and strategic export initiatives.

Dairy Cattle and Production Statistics

In 2023, Kyrgyzstan had approximately 1.2 million dairy cattle, which produced around 1.5 million metric tons of milk. The country's milk processing capacity was substantial, with about 600,000 metric tons processed annually. Cheese production reached an estimated 8,500 metric tons, while milk powder and whey production were around 3,000 metric tons.

Significant Dairy Enterprises

Key players in the Kyrgyz dairy industry include major processing plants such as Ak-Sut, Bishkek-Sut, Kant Agribusiness, and the Kyrgyz Meat and Dairy Plant. Prominent dairy farms such as Chui Valley Dairy Farm, Balykchy Dairy Farm, Issyk-Kul Dairy Cooperative, and Aravan Dairy Farm also contribute significantly to the sector.

Trade: Export and Import Data

In 2023, Kyrgyzstan exported dairy products valued at $35 million, while imports stood at $10 million. The country has been expanding its export markets, with butter exports to Russia increasing by 18% in 2024. Exports of milk and cream to Uzbekistan reached 100 tons, valued at $104,000. By 2025, Kyrgyzstan had exported 16,462 tons of dairy products in the first five months, with a notable increase in cheese, butter, and powdered milk exports.

Key Events in the Dairy Market

Several significant events have shaped the Kyrgyz dairy market in recent years:

• In 2023, a new milk processing plant opened in Bishkek, with a capacity of 200,000 liters per day.
• Government subsidies were implemented in 2022 to support local dairy farmers and boost production.
• In 2024, Kyrgyzstan's dairy exports tripled over the first eight months, highlighting the sector's growing economic importance.
• The same year, exports of milk and cream decreased by 14% in the first nine months.

Market Dynamics and Future Prospects

The Kyrgyz dairy market continues to evolve, with a 2.6% increase in milk production recorded in 2024. The introduction of a new pricing mechanism for raw milk aims to ensure transparency and stability in the market. Additionally, Kyrgyzstan is focusing on improving cattle breeds, with increased interest in high-yield breeds such as Simmental and Aberdeen Angus. The Ministry of Agriculture is investing 60 million som in improving breeding stock, including importing elite bull semen from Russia and receiving donations from Switzerland.

With growing exports and strategic market initiatives, Kyrgyzstan's dairy industry is poised for further growth, solidifying its role as a key player in the Central Asian dairy market.

Modified: 2025/07/23