Within Asia, specific nations are expected to lead this surge. India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan are forecast to continue their expansion, driven by sustained herd growth and incremental yet impactful improvements in productivity per animal. These South Asian countries are poised to solidify their positions as major contributors to the global milk pool, reflecting ongoing investments in dairy farming and genetic improvements across the region.

The growth in these Asian economies is particularly vital as it is expected to offset a projected decline in milk production from China. The FAO report indicates that China’s output growth is being dampened by factors such as falling farmgate prices and persistent cost pressures for producers. This contrast underscores the shifting dynamics within Asia’s dairy landscape and the varied challenges faced by different nations.

Echoing the FAO’s findings, the International Dairy Federation (IDF) further emphasizes the profound impact of the Asian market on global dairy dynamics. The IDF notes that China and India alone account for a staggering 50% of the world’s milk consumption. This immense demand profile solidifies Asia’s position as both a crucial producer and consumer, making its trends indispensable for international dairy analysts.