- By Aditi Priya Singh
- Sun, 20 Jul 2025 02:12 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Top 10 Milk Producing Countries In The World: Milk is one of the most significant food items in the world. It is used to make cheese, butter, yoghurt, and sweets, and it is high in vitamins, calcium, and protein. The strong dairy industry in many nations provides food for people worldwide and sustains the income of millions of farmers. India overtook the United States and Pakistan as the world's top milk-producing nation in 2024. Millions of cows and buffalo in these nations are specially bred to produce more milk.
These countries are increasing their milk production annually with the help of technology, better cattle care and enhanced feeding systems. Breeds of cattle that produce the most milk include Holstein, Murrah, Gir and Sahiwal. Other major players in the global dairy market include China, Brazil, Germany and New Zealand. In addition to meeting domestic demand, their dairy industries export milk and dairy products globally.
Top 10 Milk Producing Countries In The World
A clear picture of how dairy farming contributes to the global economy and nutritional needs can be found in this list of the top ten milk-producing nations. Here is the list of the top 10 largest milk-producing countries in the world by 2025;
| Rank | Country | 2022 Production (Million Tonnes) | 2024 Production (Million Tonnes) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | India | 213.98 | 239.30 |
| 2 | United States | 102.65 | 104.56 |
| 3 | Pakistan | 65.79 | 49.50 |
| 4 | China | 41.25 | 41.50 |
| 5 | Brazil | 36.66 (2023) | 25.00 |
| 6 | Germany | 33.19 | 33.19 |
| 7 | Russia | 32.33 | 32.50 |
| 8 | France | 25.83 | 25.83 |
| 9 | Turkey | 23.20 | 22.48 |
| 10 | New Zealand | 21.89 | 21.20 |
Source: Testbook and recent statistics by the government. sites
1. India – 239.30 million tonnes
India remains the world’s largest milk producer in 2024, with a total output of 239.30 million tonnes. The country has a strong dairy culture with millions of small-scale farmers. The major milk-producing cattle in India include Murrah and Surti buffaloes, along with Gir and Sahiwal cows. Buffalo milk makes up a large portion of India’s dairy output due to its high-fat content.
2. United States – 104.56 million tonnes
In 2024, the United States produced around 104.56 million tonnes of milk, making it the second-largest producer. Dairy farming in the U.S. is highly organised and tech-driven. The main milk-producing breed here is the Holstein cow, known for high milk yields. Jersey cows are also used for richer milk with higher butterfat.
3. Pakistan – 49.5 million tonnes
Pakistan produced 49.5 million tonnes of milk in 2024. Dairy farming is a major part of rural life, with both cows and buffalo being milked. The most productive breeds are the Nili-Ravi buffalo and Sahiwal cow, both well-suited to the local climate and feeding conditions.
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4. China – 41.5 million tonnes
China produced 41.5 million tonnes of milk in 2024. The country has rapidly expanded its dairy industry in recent years. The Holstein cow is the most common breed used in large-scale farms across the country, thanks to its high yield capacity.
5. Brazil – 25 million tonnes
Brazil’s milk production reached 25 million tonnes in 2024. The country’s dairy sector is growing, with most milk coming from Girolando cows, a crossbreed between Holstein and Gir cattle. This breed is popular due to its adaptability to tropical climates and high milk output.
6. Germany – 33.19 million tonnes
Germany produced 33.19 million tonnes of milk in 2024. It has a strong dairy industry, with well-managed farms. Most milk is produced by German Holstein Friesian cows, known for consistency and productivity. Germany also focuses on high-quality dairy processing.
7. Russia – 32.5 million tonnes
Russia produced 32.5 million tonnes of milk in 2024. Dairy farming is widely spread across the country. The leading milk-producing breed in Russia is the Black and White Holstein, which performs well in the cold climate and is preferred for large farms.
8. France – 25.83 million tonnes
In 2024, France produced 25.83 million tonnes of milk. France is famous for its cheese and dairy products. The major milk-producing cattle are Prim’Holstein cows, along with Normande and Montbéliarde breeds, which are also valued for quality milk used in cheese production.
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9. Turkey – 22.48 million tonnes
Turkey’s milk production in 2024 was 22.48 million tonnes. The dairy industry is important for local consumption and exports. The key milk-producing breeds are Holstein and Simmental cows, which are mostly raised in the western and central regions of the country.
10. New Zealand – 21.2 million tonnes
New Zealand produced 21.2 million tonnes of milk in 2024, relying heavily on pasture-based dairy farming. The main milk-producing breed is the Friesian-Jersey cross, combining high yield and rich milk. New Zealand is one of the top global exporters of dairy products.