Argentina’s dairy industry recorded a significant milestone as dairy exports surpassed beef exports for the first time, highlighting the growing importance of milk products in the country’s agricultural trade. In 2011, Argentina exported about 406,966 tonnes of milk and dairy products, marking a rapid expansion in overseas shipments.
The sector also generated around $1.5 billion in export earnings, exceeding the $1.4 billion earned from meat exports during the same period. Between 2010 and 2011, dairy export volumes rose by 32%, while meat exports declined by 15% year-on-year, reflecting a shift in Argentina’s export dynamics. Analysts attribute the trend partly to reduced government incentives for beef production, which contributed to lower output and weaker export sales.
The decline in the meat sector also had wider economic effects, with about 14,000 jobs lost in the meat-packing industry during the year. The figures underline the growing role of the dairy sector in Argentina’s agricultural economy and its rising contribution to export revenues.
Source: Dairynews7x7 9th March, 2026 Read full story here
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