By Jamie Martin
The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) has identified Central Asia as an important region for future U.S. dairy export growth through its latest Project Diversify report.
The initiative was created to help the dairy industry discover emerging global markets using a data-driven approach. The new report focuses on Central Asia and evaluates economic conditions, consumer demand, and business opportunities across the region.
Among the countries studied, Uzbekistan was identified as the strongest near-term market opportunity for U.S. dairy exporters. The report cites the country's consistent economic growth, increasing demand for dairy products, and supportive investment environment as key advantages. Strengthening trade relationships between the United States and Uzbekistan also contribute to positive market prospects.
“The next phase of U.S. dairy export growth will come from both strengthening existing markets and pursuing new opportunities around the world," said Michael Dykes, D.V.M., president and CEO of IDFA. "Project Diversify helps the industry do exactly that—applying a data-driven framework to inform strategic decision-making, and position U.S. dairy to compete and win in high-potential regions."
The report further highlights Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan as countries with promising long-term potential. Ongoing investments in infrastructure modernization, digital connectivity, and financial system improvements are expected to create opportunities for future market development.
At the same time, the analysis notes that both countries maintain significant economic and political ties with China and Russia. These relationships could present additional considerations for businesses exploring export opportunities in the region.
IDFA officials said the purpose of Project Diversify is to help dairy companies make informed decisions based on market data and long-term trends. The organization believes expanding into new regions will be critical as global dairy demand continues to grow.
“While Central Asia may not be among the first regions U.S. dairy exporters consider, our analysis shows it deserves greater attention," said Becky Rasdall Vargas, senior vice president of trade and workforce policy at IDFA.
She added, "Uzbekistan stands out for its strong economic fundamentals, growing consumer demand and expanding commercial ties with the United States – something we have shared with U.S. officials engaging in negotiations with Uzbekistan. We look forward to supporting the advancement of those negotiations through the release of this report, which we hope will also help companies make strategic, data-based export investment decisions."
This report follows an earlier Project Diversify study that examined opportunities in Western Africa. Together, the reports form part of a broader effort to identify the next generation of growth markets for U.S. dairy exports.
Looking ahead, IDFA plans to expand the initiative with additional regional analyses and interactive market comparison tools. These resources will help exporters evaluate opportunities across different countries, regions, and product categories.
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