Uzbekistan's Dairy Industry Overview

Strategically located in Central Asia, Uzbekistan leverages its agricultural strength to enhance its global dairy market presence. The sector has experienced substantial advancements in production, processing, and trade.

Dairy Cattle and Milk Production

Uzbekistan is home to approximately 4.7 million dairy cattle, contributing to a robust milk production capacity of about 10.2 million tons per year. This significant output highlights the dairy sector's vital role in the country's agriculture and economy.

Milk Processing and Cheese Production

Annually, Uzbekistan processes around 3.8 million tons of milk, transforming raw milk into various processed dairy products. Cheese production is a notable segment, with an annual output of approximately 30,000 tons, catering to both domestic and export markets.

Milk Powder and Whey Production

The nation produces about 18,000 tons of milk powder and whey each year, crucial for various dairy manufacturing processes and other food industries.

Key Dairy Enterprises

Prominent enterprises in Uzbekistan's dairy sector include the Tashkent Milk Combine, Samarkand Dairy Plant, and Andijan Dairy Production. Leading dairy farms such as Mironshoh Farm, Fayzi Kalon Farm, and Golden Valley Dairy significantly contribute to the sector's output.

Trade: Export and Import of Dairy Products

In international trade, Uzbekistan exported approximately 20,000 tons of dairy products last year. The growth in exports of Karums curds snacks to markets like Norway and Uzbekistan since 2022 is noteworthy. The nation imports around 15,000 tons of dairy products annually to meet local demand, serving as a substantial market for Kyrgyz dairy and a major importer of butter and Russian ice cream.

Significant Dairy Market Events

The Uzbek dairy market has witnessed notable developments, such as the introduction of advanced dairy processing technologies in 2022 and the expansion of export markets with products like Karums curds snacks. Government initiatives have supported increased productivity through subsidies and training for dairy farmers. According to the National Statistical Committee of Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan's import of milk and cream surged in early 2024, demonstrating its integrated role in regional dairy trade. Additionally, Uzbekistan is a significant buyer of Russian baby food and Kazakhstan's ice cream, accounting for notable portions of these countries' exports. Lely's successful establishment of an office in Uzbekistan highlights the country's potential for further regional expansion.

Despite regional tariff challenges, such as a forecasted 10% post-Soviet tariff, the domestic fast-food industry remains competitive with lower prices than neighboring Kazakhstan. Increased demand from Uzbekistan contributed to the rise in domestic beef prices in Kazakhstan. Uzbekistan has secured $38 million to modernize its dairy sector. The Government has approved a large-scale development program for the dairy sector, valued at approximately $53 million, aiming to create efficient infrastructure and strengthen the financial sustainability of enterprises. Uzbekistan is also one of the countries where ATENA exports its products, actively participating in international exhibitions to increase market opportunities.

Uzbekistan ranks second in cattle numbers in the CIS, with 14.1 million head of cattle and moderate growth: +1.9% compared to 2024 and +2.2% compared to 2023. Demographic growth drives demand for dairy products in Uzbekistan, alongside Kazakhstan. The Luhansk Ice Cream Plant plans to expand its export geography by launching product shipments to Uzbekistan in 2026. In 2026, the Luhansk Ice Cream Plant will enter the market of Uzbekistan with its brand Korolevskoye Vashe Vkusneyshevo. Uzbekistan is a key destination for Russian ice cream exports, reflecting strong market demand.

Modified: 2025/07/26