Uruguay’s dairy sector has reached a brand new milestone in 2025, with export earnings up 11% within the first half of the yr, based on official information from the Instituto Nacional de la Leche (Inale).
Dairy exports introduced in $428.5 million from January to June, making dairy the nation’s fourth largest export after beef, cellulose, and soybeans.
Most of this progress got here from complete milk powder, which made up 76% of the overall export quantity and earned $286.9 million, up 18% from final yr. Butter additionally carried out nicely, with export income rising 26% to $34.8 million.
Nevertheless, exports of cheese and skimmed milk powder fell in each quantity and worth. Rising costs have fueled a lot of this success. In June 2025, complete milk powder bought for $4,137 per tonne, up 47% from December 2024.
Butter reached $6,839 per tonne, up 24% over the identical interval. These greater costs helped make up for decrease gross sales in some merchandise. Brazil and Algeria stay Uruguay’s prime dairy patrons, collectively taking about two-thirds of exports.
Brazil leads in shopping for cheese and skimmed milk powder, whereas Algeria is the principle purchaser of complete milk powder. Russia is the highest vacation spot for Uruguayan butter. This vast mixture of patrons helps defend Uruguay from sudden adjustments in anyone market.
In 2024, Uruguay’s dairy exports totaled $853.9 million, barely greater than the yr earlier than. The nation’s 3,900 dairy farmers and processors ship merchandise to over 60 nations.
Whereas specializing in complete milk powder has introduced regular progress, it additionally means Uruguay is uncovered to cost swings in that market. Latest commerce disputes with Brazil present the dangers of relying an excessive amount of on a number of merchandise or patrons.
Uruguay’s dairy sector stands out for its capability to adapt and discover new alternatives at the same time as markets change. By maintaining high quality excessive and constructing sturdy commerce relationships, Uruguay has proven {that a} small nation can thrive in world commerce.
This yr’s outcomes spotlight the significance of sensible technique and resilience in a aggressive world.
