Milk is a white liquid food produced by lactating mammals. The young ones rely on milk as their primary source of nutrition before they are ready to digest solid food. Even when they do start consuming solid food, they are still given full-cream milk to meet their calorie needs. The origin of milk can be traced back to 10,000 years ago during the Neolithic Revolution, when humans used to survive on hunting and gathering for gathering food. They started observing animals and were able to collect milk from goats and aurochs (ancestral cow breeds) in pottery vessels. Humans also consume milk in various forms, both fresh and processed. Some of the processed milk products are butter, cheese, whey (formed along with curd after coagulation of milk), condensed milk, dried milk, yogurt, etc. The fresh milk comes from multiple sources, and we consume it as cow milk, buffalo milk, goat milk, etc.
Nowadays, with growing awareness around diet and wellness, many health-conscious individuals have started choosing specific types of milk based on their nutritional needs. For instance, Skim milk contains minimal fat and fewer calories, making it a popular option for those aiming to reduce fat intake. Low-fat milk contains about 1–2% fat and is often chosen by those people who want an alternative to whole milk. Another milk product is Buttermilk, which is known for its tangy flavor and is valued for its digestive-friendly properties. Another widely used form is powdered milk, which is made from dehydrating milk to increase its shelf life.
We consume milk products every day in our lives, and some of the most consumed ones are yogurt, cheese, butter, ice cream, etc. We consume them in every meal of the day in different forms, like yogurt and fruit meals, cheese sandwiches, or by making our curries of sauces by adding cream and butter to them. This way, we are able to enjoy all the nutritional benefits of milk in various forms. Let's look at what nutrients milk and its products provide us:
There has been a huge demand for milk and its products all over the world due to the shifting dietary preferences of humans. Therefore, world milk production is expected to increase by 1,6% annually between 2020 and 2029. As per the OECD-FAO report, it is expected to reach 997 million tons in 2029. India has a major contribution to this rising production, as there were around 56 million dairy cows in India in 2020. All this data is primary proof of how the global trade market is continuously witnessing the rising demand for milk and milk products. Some of the specific reasons which are navigating the global mill trade market are as follows:
When you’re dealing with food items like milk and milk products, it is critical to maintain a high quality. Here is what milk importers or milk product importers look for from suppliers:
Milk Types:
Milk Product Types:
Other than milk and its several types, there are many other types of products you can include in your exporting business. milk & milk products importers usually are also in need of some other beverage or related items. Let's explore those products:
When you understand how big the market is for milk and dairy products, it can make a big difference in your business. It helps you pick the right countries where you will be able to attract the most valuable milk buyers company from all across the globe.
Global Market Size
Source: IMARC Group
Top Importing Countries for Milk & Milk Products (2024):
Source: Volza
If you’re looking to expand your milk and milk products exporting business beyond borders, there are several ways through which you can find many milk & milk products buyers. Here’s a virtual guide for you to find those buyers globally:
1. Start by Exploring Local Opportunities
Whether you're just starting or have gained experience, always begin by reaching out to local businesses such as dairy processors, supermarkets, cafes, bakeries, and restaurants. They often require huge supplies of milk, cheese, butter, yogurt, or different types of milk. You can search for "milk and milk products buyers near me" and connect with them. They also have some connections in the global trade market, so you can also take advantage of that.
2. Sign up on B2B Platforms
Become a member at B2B platforms, such as go4WorldBusiness, to access a wide network of verified milk buyers and milk products buyers. This platform will also help you personalize it as per your product. For instance, you can search for dehydrated milk buyers or condensed milk buyers, and you will see the buyers for only these products.
3. Build an Online Presence Through Social Media and LinkedIn
Social media platforms like Instagram/Facebook, or LinkedIn allow you to share some inside stories, highlight achievements, etc. It further helps in establishing trust with potential milk buyers.
4. Attend Global Food and Dairy Trade Shows
Trade exhibitions are goldmines for finding reliable buyers of milk & milk products. Some of the world-famous ones are Anuga Dairy, World Dairy Expo, etc. These fairs invite and permit only the credible and verified milk/milk products buyers. So, no more scams or "no-show buyers". You can make some valuable connections with traders from all over the world.
1. How do I sell milk directly to customers?
First, you will need to complete all the basic legal formalities. Then you sell milk directly to customers by setting up your store. You can also sell them online by creating a website.
2. What is the rate of 1 litre of milk?
Milk price per litre ranges from INR 52 to 83, which can vary in different countries as per the type of milk.
3. Who buys the most milk?
Domestically, grocery stores, bakeries, cafes, restaurants, and hotels buy the most milk. While in the global trading industry, Russia is the importing country of milk.
4. Can I sell cow milk?
You can sell cow milk to your local grocery stores or export them internationally to some of the top importing countries like Russia or Ukraine.
5. Is selling milk profitable?
Yes, for sure. You can get a profit margin of 10-20% per litre of milk.
6. Do you need a license to sell milk?
Yes, you will need a license to sell milk. One of the most important is the FSSAI certificate.
7. Where to find milk buyers?
You can find multiple milk buyers on B2B platforms, trade fairs, or on social media platforms and LinkedIn.
8. Is milk in demand for export?
Yes, milk is highly in demand in Russia, Ukraine, and Uzbekistan.
9. Which milk product is most profitable for my export business?
Milk powder and ghee are two of the most profitable milk products for your export business.
10. Which cow is best for milk?
Holstein Friesians are considered the best cows for milk production.
11. How to start a milk export business?
You can start a milk export business by getting necessary certifications, identifying target markets, and connecting with milk importers through B2B platforms, trade shows, and social media.
12. Which Indian state is no. 1 in milk production?
Uttar Pradesh stands in the top position in milk production.
13. Which is the milk city of India?
Anand in Gujarat state is called the milk city of India.
14. What are the major importing countries of dairy products?
China, the US, Mexico, and Japan are some of the major importing countries of dairy products.
15. What is India's rank in milk export?
India stands at the 48th position in exporting milk globally.
16. What are the major dairy products exported globally?
Milk powder, cheese, yogurt, and butter are some of the major dairy products exported globally.
17. What are the major export destinations for Indian dairy products?
The major export destinations for Indian dairy products are the UAE, Saudi Arabia, the US, and Singapore.
The global dairy market is being disrupted, and the exports might be destabilized by the increasing tariffs. The US, EU, and Oceania are some of the most affected countries. (Full story: GEP)
