Iran Emerges as Major Global Milk Export Power
Iran is rapidly emerging as a significant force in the global dairy trade, with the country now ranked as the world’s fourth-largest milk exporter, behind the European Union, New Zealand and the United States, even surpassing Australia. In 2025, Iran is estimated to have exported 182,000 tonnes of milk powder, marking a sharp rise of around 134,000 tonnes compared to 2021 and reflecting a 27% increase in exports.
The country’s growing presence has also influenced global markets, contributing to a more than 20% increase in skimmed milk powder prices, according to benchmark data. Iran processes millions of tonnes of raw milk annually, converting a large share into skimmed milk powder for export to neighbouring regions.
Key importers include Pakistan, Iraq, the UAE and Afghanistan, where dairy and bakery industries are heavily dependent on these supplies. Experts note that any disruption in Iranian exports could severely impact these markets, potentially bringing segments of their dairy and food processing sectors to a standstill.
Skimmed milk powder, which contains only about 0.5% fat, is widely used in products such as milk, yoghurt, sweets, bakery items, tea and coffee mixes, and ice cream, making it a critical ingredient across the food industry. Iran’s expanding dairy footprint highlights its strategic diversification beyond oil and gas into agri-food exports.
Source: Dairynew7x7 17th March, 2026 Read full story here
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