Venezuela Aims to Boost Dairy Exports Focusing on Buffalo, Goat, and Sheep Chains

The Venezuelan government is accelerating its agri-food matrix transformation with an eye on external markets. During the inauguration of the IV National Buffalo, Goat, and Sheep ExpoFair 2026 at the Simón Bolívar Park in La Carlota, Caracas, interim President Delcy Rodríguez emphasized the consolidation of non-cow dairy exports as a priority for the country's economic diversification.

Venezuela's advancements in livestock are supported by its substantial animal inventory, particularly in water buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis). Official figures presented at the event indicate that Venezuela currently possesses the largest buffalo herd in the Americas, positioning itself as the fifth-largest in the world. Buffalo milk, with its high industrial yield due to higher fat and protein content than cow milk, serves as a key ingredient for producing premium cheeses and high-value mozzarellas suitable for export.

Rodríguez highlighted that the maintenance and expansion of goat, sheep, and buffalo basins result fr om coordinated efforts between private producers and the public sector. This synergy aims to ensure full domestic market supply while generating stable export surpluses, mitigating the impact of international financial restrictions on the Caribbean country's economy.

The ExpoFair, running until May 17, features over a thousand animals on display, showcasing advances in genetic improvement across various Venezuelan regions. The event serves as an agro-industrial platform wh ere producers and entrepreneurs engage in business rounds. The focus is on standardizing safety and packaging processes for dairy derivatives (mainly goat matured cheeses and buffalo by-products) to meet the sanitary requirements of international buying markets.