Cambodia's Dairy Industry Overview
Cambodia's dairy industry remains in its formative years, with a significant reliance on imports to satisfy domestic consumption needs. The imposition of high tariffs on imported dairy products presents additional hurdles for both importers and consumers within the country.
Dairy Production
The country's dairy production is limited and primarily localized. Recent data indicates that despite some growth in domestic dairy farming, the sector is hindered by a lack of adequate infrastructure and technology. The volume of milk production is constrained by the small number of dairy farms and cattle.
Number of Dairy Cattle
Estimates suggest that Cambodia has fewer than 10,000 dairy cattle, with the majority being small-scale farm operations. This limited number of cattle restricts the potential for growth in domestic milk production.
Milk Production Volume
The annual milk production volume is estimated to be less than 10 million liters, underscoring the country's dependence on imported dairy products to meet national consumption needs.
Milk Processing Volume
Processing facilities in Cambodia are limited, with the capacity restrained by the short supply of locally produced raw milk. Consequently, processed dairy products are predominantly imported.
Cheese Production
Cheese production in Cambodia is negligible, as the local market is not yet developed to support widespread production or consumption. Most cheese consumed within the country is imported.
Milk Powder and Whey Production
There is no significant production of milk powder or whey in Cambodia, with nearly all such products being imported from foreign markets.
Key Dairy Enterprises
Angkor Dairy Products Co., Ltd is a notable local enterprise, focusing mainly on pasteurized milk products. Royal Food is involved in the import and distribution of various dairy products.
Dairy Farms
Most dairy farms in Cambodia are small, family-owned operations aimed at serving local communities rather than engaging in large-scale production.
Trade - Exports
Due to the developing nature of its industry and the prevailing domestic demand, Cambodia's exports of dairy products are virtually non-existent. Efforts are focused on enhancing local production capabilities to reduce reliance on imports.
Trade - Imports
A substantial portion of Cambodia's dairy products is imported, with an annual import volume estimated at over 50,000 tons. The high tariffs imposed on these imports significantly affect pricing and consumption patterns within the country.
Dairy Market Events
Recent years have witnessed efforts from both the government and private investors to enhance local dairy production. Initiatives include investments in farm modernization and educational programs to improve dairy farming techniques. The US dairy sector has experienced growth in Asian markets following trade agreements with Cambodia. Farm Fresh is preparing to launch a new plant in Cambodia, with operational plans set for April, alongside potential farm establishments within the next one to two years. F&N is constructing a new dairy facility expected to begin operations in the first quarter of the 2026 financial year, coinciding with the export of Bear Brand Sterilised Milk to Cambodia. A significant development in Cambodia's dairy industry is the establishment of its first large-scale milk production and processing facility in Veal Veng district, Pursat province. This $68 million initiative aims to enhance the supply of high-quality fresh milk, thereby reducing the country's dependence on imports.
Modified: 2026/08/21