Milk products from Kerala to Gulf countries surge, with UAE leading imports at Rs 82.18 crore

Gulf Countries Boost Imports of Kerala Milk Products, UAE Leads with Rs 82.18 Crore

Gulf countries are increasingly turning to Kerala for their milk product needs, with significant exports recorded over the past financial year. The UAE has emerged as the leading importer, purchasing 1,316.47 tonnes of milk products from Kerala and contributing Rs 82.18 crore to India’s export revenue. This figure marks a notable increase from the previous year’s exports of 891.9 tonnes.

The UAE’s heightened demand encompasses a range of products, including ghee, butter, cheese, milk, buttermilk, milk powder, and ice cream. Following the UAE, other Gulf nations such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Oman also imported substantial quantities of milk products via Kerala, with Saudi Arabia bringing in 354.68 tonnes, Qatar 279.46 tonnes, and Oman 295.83 tonnes.

This growing preference in the Gulf region is driven by the perceived health benefits of dairy products and the strong presence of Malayali communities in these countries. These expatriate communities not only foster a market for Kerala’s dairy products but also help sustain and increase demand.

Kerala plays a crucial role in the dairy export sector, not only through its own products but also by facilitating exports from neighboring states. This strategic position enhances Kerala’s influence in the international dairy market.

Despite Kerala’s prominence in dairy exports, India remains the largest global milk producer. Uttar Pradesh leads in production, with Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat also being major contributors. Kerala, while significant in exports, does not rank among the top 10 milk-producing states.

Overall, India’s milk product export earnings have declined, with total exports dropping from 1.56 lakh tonnes in 2022-23 to 1.73 lakh tonnes in the past financial year. Revenue from these exports decreased from Rs 4,709.17 crore to Rs 3,882.02 crore during the same period. This revenue decline highlights broader challenges in the dairy export sector, despite the increase in export volumes.

The rising export of milk products from Kerala to Gulf countries illustrates the shifting dynamics of global dairy trade and underscores the growing significance of regional markets in the dairy sector.