Milk Export from India: Updated Milk Export Data, Top Exporters & Global Insights

India, the land of vibrant culture and culinary richness, is not just the world's top milk producer—it’s steadily growing as a global player in the dairy export market. With a massive cattle population and decades of investment in dairy infrastructure, milk export from India is becoming an increasingly lucrative business.

According to the latest milk export data, India accounted for 25% of the world’s milk production in 2023-24, producing approximately 230.58 million metric tons. While domestic consumption remains high, there is a significant surge in international demand for Indian milk and milk products.

In this article, we will explore the market size, production insights, export potential, and key players involved in the milk export from India.

Global Dairy Market Overview

The global dairy industry was valued at approximately $516.61 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow to $700 billion by 2033. Milk, being the most consumed dairy product globally, remains at the heart of this growth.

India alone produced nearly three times as much milk as China in 2023-24, solidifying its position as the largest milk producer in the world. However, in terms of exports, there’s still room to grow—India’s dairy exports represented only 0.25% of global exports due to its high domestic consumption.

Production of Milk in India (2023-24)

India’s milk production reached a record 230.58 million metric tons in 2023-24, with a 58% growth in the past nine years. Over 80 million people in the country are directly employed in the dairy sector, showing how integral it is to the economy.

Top milk-producing states include:

• Rajasthan (15.05%)

• Uttar Pradesh (14.93%)

• Madhya Pradesh (8.6%)

• Gujarat (7.56%)

• Andhra Pradesh (6.97%)

With an average per capita milk availability of 459 grams per day, India ensures strong internal demand alongside a growing export base.

Milk Export Data (2023-24)

According to official milk export data, India exported 63,738.47 metric tons of dairy products valued at $272.64 million in FY 2023–24.

Key Export Highlights:

• Top exporting states: Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Punjab, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh

• Major export destinations: UAE, Saudi Arabia, USA, Singapore, Bhutan

• Total milk powder shipments: 1,285 from March 2023 to February 2024

India’s export shipments reached 29,500, with participation from over 2,500 Indian milk exporters supplying to more than 3,200 global buyers.

Despite these promising numbers, India still trails behind the largest milk exporter in the world, New Zealand. However, the gap offers immense potential for growth and innovation in the Indian dairy export sector.

Top Milk Export HS Codes from India

Understanding HS codes is crucial for anyone looking to export milk from India. Here are the top milk product HS codes:

• 04012000 - Milk & Cream (Fat 1%-6%)

• 04021020 - Baby milk food (powder)

• 04049000 - Natural milk constituents

• 04015000 - Milk & Cream (Fat >10%)

• 04022910 - Whole Milk (Fat >1.5%)

These categories cover the bulk of milk export from India and serve as a reference point for traders and customs documentation.

Top Milk Exporting Countries (2023-24)

India may be a dairy powerhouse, but it's not yet the largest exporter of milk. Here's a list of the top global exporters:

• New Zealand - $6.8 billion

• Germany - $3.5 billion

• United States - $2.9 billion

• Netherlands - $2.6 billion

• Belgium - $2.31 billion

New Zealand holds the title of the largest milk exporter in the world, leveraging its efficient dairy systems and international trade networks. India has a long way to go, but shows promising signs of catching up.

Top Milk Importing Countries

To scale up, milk exporters in India need to focus on key international markets. The following countries are the largest milk importers:

• United States – $2.3 billion

• Germany – $893.3 million

• France – $678.8 million

• Ireland – $611.7 million

• Australia – $569.9 million

Targeting these nations with high-quality dairy products and competitive pricing can boost India's global presence.

Leading Milk Exporters in India

Here are some of the top milk exporters who are shaping the export industry in India:

• Thiva Exim

• Saanvi Inc.

• Bhim Sain & Sons

• Amul

• Mother Dairy

• Namaste India Milk

• Behal International

• Aniv Enterprises

• Good Luck Agro

• SBH Foods Pvt Ltd

These companies have strong logistics, certification, and supply chain mechanisms in place to meet global standards.

How to Export Milk from India?

If you are planning to export milk from India, here’s what you need to get started:

1. Registration with APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority)

2. FSSAI License and certification

3. Compliance with international quality standards

4. Knowledge of HS codes and trade documentation

5. Reliable milk export data for market targeting

Seair Exim Solutions offers real-time trade insights and verified contact details of global buyers, helping you navigate the complex export journey smoothly.

Conclusion

India may not yet be the largest exporter of milk, but its foundation as the largest producer is a strong advantage. With structured planning, market insights, and government support, the milk export from India can grow exponentially.

Whether you are an existing exporter or planning to enter the dairy export business, using tools like milk export data and industry analytics from platforms like Seair Exim Solutions can give you a significant competitive edge.

Ready to take your dairy business global? Explore authentic data, find real buyers, and grow your export potential with Seair Exim Solutions.