Uzbekistan's Dairy Market Overview

Uzbekistan, strategically located in Central Asia, has shown considerable development in its dairy industry. Leveraging its agricultural capabilities, the country is enhancing its position in the global dairy market.

Dairy Cattle and Milk Production

The country is home to approximately 4.7 million dairy cattle, supporting a significant milk production capacity of about 10.2 million tons annually. This substantial production demonstrates the sector's vitality within the national agricultural framework.

Milk Processing and Cheese Production

Uzbekistan processes around 3.8 million tons of milk per year, converting raw milk into diverse processed dairy products. The cheese production volume stands at approximately 30,000 tons annually, catering to both domestic consumption and export demands.

Milk Powder and Whey Production

The production of milk powder and whey is estimated at 18,000 tons per year. These products are crucial components for various dairy manufacturing processes and other food products.

Key Dairy Enterprises

Notable dairy enterprises in Uzbekistan include the Tashkent Milk Combine, Samarkand Dairy Plant, and Andijan Dairy Production. Prominent dairy farms are Mironshoh Farm, Fayzi Kalon Farm, and Golden Valley Dairy.

Trade: Export and Import of Dairy Products

In terms of international trade, Uzbekistan exported approximately 20,000 tons of dairy products last year. A highlight of these exports includes the growth of Karums curds snacks, which began exporting to Norway and Uzbekistan in 2022.

The country imports around 15,000 tons of dairy products annually. These imports help to satisfy local demand and complement domestic production. Uzbekistan remains a key market for Kyrgyz dairy products, being one of the primary importers of Kyrgyz butter, and it is a leading importer of Russian ice cream.

Significant Dairy Market Events

The dairy market in Uzbekistan has seen several significant events, including the introduction of new dairy processing technologies in 2022. The expansion into export markets was marked by the commencement of Karums curds snacks exports to Norway and Uzbekistan. Additionally, governmental initiatives aimed at enhancing dairy farmers' productivity through subsidies and training programs have been pivotal.

According to the National Statistical Committee of Kyrgyzstan, from January to July 2024, the export of milk and cream to Uzbekistan increased significantly, reaching 100 tons valued at $104,000. Furthermore, Uzbekistan is a key buyer of Russian baby food, accounting for 32% of total exports. Uzbekistan was also one of the key export markets for Kazakhstan's ice cream.

Modified: 2025/02/04

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