August 19, 2005

India aims to double dairy exports in three years

India's exports of milk and milk products are set to more than double to Rs 500 crore (US$114.7 million) in the next three years. This excludes the US$57.4-million earnings from exports of casein, another milk product used mainly in the pharmaceuticals industry, the Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF) said.

Other than looking to expand in Europe and the US, GCMMF is also aiming to increase its market share in Asia, Africa and Middle Eastern countries.

The federation will also export milk and milk products to Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh, given the country's improving bilateral relations with its neighbours. It also expects that 20 percent of its total annual milk production to go to these countries.

GCMMF pointed out that the EU's reduced agricultural subsidies have resulted in a more level playing field for Indian products in the global market.

The federation, which markets the Amul brand of products, is also aiming at exports worth over US$34.4 million by this financial year-end. In the last fiscal year, it exported products worth US$26.4 million.