Dairy Production Decline in Yucatán Amid Rising Meat Output

In 2025, Yucatán's livestock sector reported a marked increase in meat production, while milk production volumes decreased. This shift suggests a reallocation of resources towards meat production, potentially due to greater profitability or fewer operational challenges in the local climate and market.

Experts attribute the drop in dairy production to factors such as heat stress and high costs associated with feed and herd management in the tropical climate. High-producing dairy cows are particularly vulnerable to extreme environmental conditions, necessitating costly investments in cooling infrastructure that many small dairy producers can't afford.

The rise in meat production is linked to successful breed adaptation, improved fattening systems, and an expanding market for regional meat products. This growth is a positive economic signal for the state, indicating Yucatán's capacity to become a significant player in animal protein supply.

The local Secretariat of Rural Development and producer associations face the challenge of stabilizing and revitalizing milk production, which requires targeted investments in technology such as heat-resistant genetics and specialized technical advice.