Rising Demand Drives Ukrainian Milk Powder Exports
A sharp increase in global prices for powdered milk has fueled demand for Ukrainian exports. In February 2026, the export map for Ukrainian skim milk powder (SMP) shifted dramatically, with Syria becoming the leading importer by securing 30% of all shipments. Domestic dairy prices in Ukraine are also climbing, mirroring worldwide trends in the dairy ingredients market.
Key Importers of Ukrainian SMP
Other major buyers of Ukrainian SMP include Malaysia, which claimed second place with a 14% share, followed by Japan at 13%. Georgia received 7% of Ukrainian SMP, while Israel accounted for 6%. The remaining 29% of supplies were distributed among various other nations. This redistribution highlights shifting international demand for Ukrainian dairy products.
Meanwhile, the European Union has set a tariff-free quota for Ukrainian SMP at 7,500 metric tons for the first half of the year, a factor that could influence export volumes. In the whole milk powder (WMP) segment, export activity remains subdued. The primary consumers of Ukrainian WMP are Israel and Poland. Israel accounts for 57% of all Ukrainian WMP exports, with Poland taking the remaining 43%.
Overall, the combination of rising global powdered milk prices and a changing export landscape for Ukrainian SMP points to growing international interest in Ukrainian products, a trend also reflected in domestic price hikes.
With heightened demand for powdered milk, Ukraine has the potential to expand its export opportunities, particularly in emerging markets like Syria.
Rising domestic prices may encourage producers to boost output, a key factor for maintaining competitiveness on the global stage. However, the EU's duty-free quota could cap export growth, requiring Ukrainian exporters to adopt a strategic approach.
As the demand for Ukrainian skim milk powder surges, it's important to consider the broader trends affecting the dairy market. Recently, there has been a significant decline in dairy exports, with over 9% lost in just one month. This juxtaposition highlights the complexities within the industry, as rising prices and fluctuating demand create both challenges and opportunities for producers in Ukraine.