Introduction – Ukraine’s Milk Market by the Numbers
Ukraine’s dairy sector has long held a steady, though modest, position on the global stage. In 2024, the country produced around 7.25 million metric tons of milk, which marked a small but notable 2.5% drop compared to the year before. This continued the downward trend from 8.72 million metric tons in 2021 to 7.77 million metric tons in 2022. Yet, despite this dip in production, Ukraine’s resilience in export markets has been quite impressive.
In fact, Ukraine exported 117,730 metric tons of dairy products in 2024, generating $295.03 million, which is an 8% increase in volume and 14% increase in revenue compared to 2023. The bulk of these exports consisted of condensed milk and cream (32%), cheese (22%), and butter (20%).
So, what does this mean for buyers and businesses looking to source milk from Ukraine? It means that while production may be under pressure, the country’s export performance is strong, indicating a well-adapted, export-ready dairy industry. If you’re in the procurement space, especially in food and beverage manufacturing or retail distribution, identifying the top-performing suppliers based on actual export data is not just smart—it’s essential.
And that’s exactly what we’ll dive into.
Deep Dive – Key Production, Export Statistics & Current Demand Data
Let’s unpack the numbers a bit more. Ukraine’s dairy sector has been navigating some pretty choppy waters. On one hand, fluid milk production is forecasted to decrease slightly in 2025 due to infrastructure challenges and economic pressures. On the other, industrial farms are becoming more efficient, which could help offset some of the declines.
Despite all this, exports have remained strong. In 2024, the country saw a sharp increase in both volume and value of dairy exports. This speaks to one thing: global demand is high—especially for milk fats like butter.
What’s interesting is how this is reflected in real-time buyer behavior. Platforms like Freshdi, a B2B marketplace for food and beverage sourcing, have seen a notable uptick in RFQs (Requests for Quotation) for Ukrainian milk-based products. This aligns perfectly with the statistical export boom we’re seeing.
Top 4 Verified Milk Suppliers in Ukraine – Top Tier Based on Export Data
When it comes to choosing milk suppliers from Ukraine, you don’t want to roll the dice. You want verified exporters with a proven track record—and that’s exactly what we’ve curated here based on data, buyer reviews, and supplier certifications on platforms like Freshdi.
Here are the Top 4 Milk Suppliers in Ukraine in Quarter 3 of 2025:
1. Lantmannen AXA
- Specialty: Milk-based snack bars and chocolate products.
- Why They Stand Out: Known for quality, innovation, and consistency in exports. A favorite among European buyers.
- Certifications: ISO 22000, HACCP.
- Buyer Feedback: High marks for timely delivery and product integrity.
2. HEALTHY GENERATION LLC UKRAINE
- Specialty: Sugar-free milk chocolate and functional dairy-based candies.
- Why They Stand Out: Strong appeal in health-conscious markets. Known for clean labels and natural ingredients.
- Certifications: Organic, ISO 9001.
- Buyer Feedback: Excellent packaging and shelf life.
3. Pharm Export Group
- Specialty: Infant milk formulas and nutritional milk products.
- Why They Stand Out: Trusted by pharmaceutical distributors and hospitals across Eastern Europe and Asia.
- Certifications: GMP, ISO 13485.
- Buyer Feedback: Reliable documentation and regulatory compliance.
4. RICHOIL PE
- Specialty: Milk thistle oil and milk-derivative health products.
- Why They Stand Out: Niche but high-quality supplier in the wellness segment.
- Certifications: ISO 22000, Organic Certified.
- Buyer Feedback: High purity and excellent customer service.
Dynamic Ranking Note
It’s worth noting that platforms like Freshdi offer dynamic supplier rankings based on recent performance, such as “Supplier of the Month” or “Top Exporter of the Quarter.” These rankings are driven by real-time metrics like RFQ response time, delivery reliability, and buyer satisfaction. So, if you’re sourcing dairy products, checking Freshdi’s leaderboard could give you a competitive edge.
Market Navigation – Statistical Trends, Price Insights & Export Dynamics
Now that we’ve met the top players, let’s zoom out and look at the broader market landscape.
Export Trends & Demand Shifts
The 8% rise in export volume and 14% growth in value in 2024 was largely fueled by high global demand for dairy fats. But starting in June 2025, the game changed. The European Union reinstated tariffs and strict quotas on Ukrainian dairy imports, especially butter and milk powder. This policy shift has created a bottleneck in exports, pressuring domestic producers.
Buyers must adapt quickly to these dynamics, especially if they rely on EU distribution channels. Diversifying supply chains and monitoring trade policy changes is crucial.
Seasonal Price Fluctuations
Milk isn’t immune to the laws of supply and demand. Between July and December 2023, raw milk prices in Ukraine jumped by 30%, hitting a 10-year high. This was due to dwindling production and surging foreign demand.
By November 2024, premium-grade raw milk was priced at UAH 19.40/kg, largely driven by butter demand abroad. However, with domestic consumption slowing, prices began to show signs of stabilization in late December.
Fast forward to July 2025, prices are back on the rise due to raw material shortages and peak export demand. Extra-grade milk averaged UAH 16.14/kg, with further hikes expected in August—unless new EU trade deals are struck.
Procurement Strategy Tip
If you’re sourcing Ukrainian dairy, consider buying ahead of peak seasons and locking in prices early. Use platforms like Freshdi to track RFQ trends and supplier lead times. It’s like having a weather forecast but for your supply chain.
Conclusion – Leveraging Data for Informed Procurement
Ukraine’s dairy industry may be facing production and regulatory challenges, but its export data tells a story of resilience and adaptability. With increased efficiencies at industrial farms and a strong track record of meeting international demand, Ukraine remains a key player in the global dairy chain.
For buyers and procurement specialists, the takeaway is clear: data matters. Choosing suppliers based on verified export performance, certifications, and buyer reviews ensures fewer surprises and better business outcomes.
Platforms like Freshdi are critical in this process. They provide real-time market insights, supplier verification, RFQ trends, and even buyer feedback—everything you need to make smart sourcing decisions.
Key Takeaways
- Ukraine exported 117,730 MT of dairy in 2024, worth $295.03 million.
- The Top 4 Milk Suppliers in Q3 2025 are Lantmannen AXA, Healthy Generation LLC, Pharm Export Group, and RICHOIL PE.
- EU trade restrictions in 2025 are disrupting export flows and influencing prices.
- Milk prices are experiencing upward pressure, especially for premium and extra-grade variants.
- Freshdi is a valuable tool for sourcing, supplier ranking, and market intelligence.
Milk Buyer’s Checklist – Ukraine Edition
✅ Have I reviewed the latest export stats from Ukraine?
✅ Am I aware of current EU tariff/quota policies?
✅ Have I shortlisted suppliers with verified export records?
✅ Am I tracking seasonal price trends and planning purchases accordingly?
✅ Have I used Freshdi to compare RFQs and supplier ratings?
Future Outlook – What’s Next for Ukraine’s Dairy Sector?
Looking ahead, the industry will need to adapt to EU trade constraints while exploring new markets in Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. Productivity gains at industrial farms may offset some challenges, but global buyers will need to stay agile.
With tools like Freshdi, buyers can stay ahead of the curve—tapping into trusted supplier networks, analyzing dynamic rankings, and securing competitive deals before the market shifts again.
FAQs
1. Why is Ukraine still a strong player in milk exports despite production declines?
Because its dairy processors have adapted to global demands, improved efficiency, and focused exports on high-demand products like condensed milk, cheese, and butter.
2. How can I ensure a Ukrainian milk supplier is reliable?
Use platforms like Freshdi to verify certifications, check export records, and read buyer reviews before committing.
3. Are milk prices expected to rise further in 2025?
Yes, due to raw material shortages and high export demand, though new EU agreements could stabilize the market.
4. What’s the impact of EU tariffs on Ukrainian milk suppliers?
It limits export volume to the EU, forcing suppliers to explore alternative markets or face revenue loss.
5. How does Freshdi help with milk procurement?
Freshdi provides real-time RFQ trends, supplier verification, dynamic rankings, and trade data—making it easier to source strategically from Ukraine.
References
- Teseo CLAL – Ukraine Milk Production
- Wikipedia – Global Milk Production
- AVM Ukraine – Dairy Export Report 2024
- USDA – Ukraine Dairy Outlook 2025
- DairyGlobal – Milk Price Trends
- Interfax Ukraine – Raw Milk Pricing
- Baltimore Chronicle – EU Tariff Impact
- BZNS Media – Milk Prices Rise
- Freshdi – B2B Sourcing Platform
