Herd Expansion Fuels Dairy Industry Growth

The Philippine dairy industry is expected to sustain its growth momentum in 2026, supported by herd expansion, rising domestic milk demand and government-backed dairy development programs. According to the National Dairy Authority (NDA), the value of dairy production at constant 2018 prices increased by 6.5% in the first quarter of 2026, improving from 5.1% growth recorded a year earlier.

Dairy production volume also climbed 6.47% to 11.79 million liters. The NDA stated that industry growth was already visible even before the arrival of imported dairy animals intended for government stock farms, with the imports expected to further strengthen breeding capacity and milk production.

Demand is also projected to rise due to the planned expansion of the Department of Education’s milk feeding program under the Sagip Saka Act, creating stronger and more stable demand for locally produced milk. NDA Administrator Marcus Antonius T. Andaya said the initiative is expected to encourage dairy farmers to expand herds and improve productivity.

Per capita milk consumption in the Philippines rose to 19.53 liters in 2025 from 17.16 liters a year earlier. For 2026, the NDA is targeting milk production of 53 million liters, which would raise the country’s dairy self-sufficiency level to 2.33% from 2.1% recorded in March. Analysts say stronger farm-level programs, improved breeding infrastructure and rising consumer demand are likely to continue supporting the sector’s long-term expansion. (BusinessWorld)

Source: Dairynews7x7 12 May, 2026 Read full article here

#DairyIndustry #MilkProduction #DairyGrowth #HerdExpansion #DairyFarmers #MilkConsumption #GlobalDairy