Dairy Industry in the Philippines
The Philippines, a Southeast Asian nation, is emerging as a significant player in the global dairy industry. Despite the challenges posed by its tropical climate, the country is making notable progress in dairy production through enhanced farming methods and strategic industry initiatives.
Dairy Cattle Population
The country is home to approximately 615,000 dairy cattle. This reflects the Philippines' commitment to expanding herd sizes in response to the growing demand for milk.
Milk Production and Processing
In 2022, the Philippines produced about 24.38 million liters of milk. This increase is attributed to improved farming techniques and the introduction of imported dairy cattle breeds. Annually, the country processes around 23.5 million liters of milk, showcasing strong collaboration between cooperatives and private processing plants to optimize milk output.
Cheese and Milk Powder Production
Cheese production is gaining momentum in the Philippines, with approximately 1,500 metric tons produced annually. This growth is driven by both local and export markets. The country also produces about 4,000 metric tons of milk powder each year, primarily for local consumption, with some quantities exported.
Key Dairy Facilities
Prominent dairy plants in the Philippines include Alaminos Dairy Cooperative, DVF Dairy Farm, Laguna Creamery, Inc., and the Philippine Carabao Center Dairy Farm. Key dairy farms include Batangas Dairy Producers Cooperative, Bohol Dairy Cooperative, Gatas ng Kalabaw Farmers Cooperative, and Pantaleon Livestock & Poultry Farm.
Export and Import of Dairy Products
The Philippines exports approximately 3,000 metric tons of dairy products annually, including cheese, milk powder, and condensed milk to other Asian markets. To meet increasing domestic demand, the country imports about 110,000 metric tons of dairy products each year, including milk powder, cheese, butter, and UHT milk, primarily from New Zealand, the United States, and Australia.
Recent Events in the Dairy Industry
Fonterra's decision to outsource financial services to Manila underscores the Philippines' growing role in the global dairy market. The government's Dairy Industry Roadmap 2025 aims to boost local milk production and reduce imports. The Philippines is a major buyer in the whey market, importing from Ukraine, and has experienced a 34% increase in NFDM/SMP exports to Southeast Asia as of September. Additionally, the country remains a key market for Malaysian palm oil and is among the top importers of South Korean ice cream, importing $1.1 million worth in July. Darigold, Inc. has re-entered the Philippine consumer market after a 50-year hiatus. The Spanish brand Yolé has inaugurated its first standalone store at Robinsons Place Manila.
The USDA predicts increased demand for key dairy products like whole milk powder and cheese, indicating continued growth in the industry.
Modified: 2025/11/09