Dairy Industry in Mauritania
Mauritania's dairy industry is an integral part of the country's agricultural landscape, with a focus on traditional livestock-rearing practices adapted to the arid desert environment.
Dairy Cattle Population
The country is home to approximately 500,000 dairy cattle, primarily consisting of native breeds. These breeds are well-suited to the harsh climate and are managed mainly by small-scale pastoral communities.
Milk Production
Annual milk production in Mauritania is about 300,000 metric tons. While cattle are the primary source, goats and camels also contribute to the overall output, reflecting the country's nomadic heritage and diverse livestock population.
Milk Processing
The milk processing sector in Mauritania is relatively underdeveloped, with around 100,000 metric tons processed each year. However, there is increasing interest in investing in and expanding this sector to enhance value addition in the local dairy industry.
Cheese and Milk Powder Production
Cheese production in Mauritania is minimal, with approximately 5,000 metric tons produced annually. The production of milk powder and whey collectively amounts to about 10,000 metric tons, primarily catering to domestic needs.
Key Dairy Enterprises
Notable enterprises in the Mauritanian dairy sector include:
- SMFP (Société de Management et Financement des Projets) - A leading enterprise in milk collection and processing.
- Laiterie de Nouakchott - A prominent dairy plant specializing in milk and dairy products.
Major Dairy Farms
Key dairy farms in Mauritania include:
- El Mauritania Farms - Known for integrating modern farming techniques with traditional livestock rearing.
- Adrar Dairy Farm - Focuses on enhancing dairy cattle breeds to improve milk yield.
Export and Import of Dairy Products
Mauritania exports approximately 20,000 metric tons of dairy products annually, mainly to neighboring countries. In contrast, the country imports around 50,000 metric tons, primarily from Europe and Latin America, highlighting a reliance on foreign dairy products to meet local demand.
Dairy Market Events
The Mauritanian dairy sector has seen recent international partnerships aimed at improving dairy infrastructure. The "Milk and Dairy Products Festival" is a notable event promoting local products and emphasizing the industry's regional importance. Additionally, Saudi Arabia has expressed interest in Mauritania, with trade valued at SR119 million, largely through Saudi exports. A joint Saudi-Mauritanian business forum aims to establish strong economic ties and foster long-term partnerships across various sectors. Mauritania serves as a significant market for Uruguayan dairy products, with purchases near $3 million, underscoring the African continent's vital role in Uruguayan dairy exports. In May 2026, Mauritania was a key buyer of Uruguayan dairy products, purchasing around $3 million worth and paying the highest price for whole milk powder at $3,870 per ton.
Modified: 2026/06/10