West Africa Dairy Market
Market Size in USD Billion
CAGR :
% 
USD
3.05 Billion
USD
3.69 Billion
2025
2033
 Forecast Period |
2026 –2033 |
 Market Size (Base Year) |
USD 3.05 Billion |
 Market Size (Forecast Year) |
USD 3.69 Billion |
 CAGR |
% |
| Major Markets Players |
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West Africa Dairy Market Segmentation, By Dairy Product Type (Milk, Cheese, Butter, Yoghurt, Dairy Dessert and Others), Milk Product Type (Regular, Lactose-Free, Organic and Others), Dairy Milk Type (Milk Powder, Evaporated Milk, Skimmed Milk and Ready To Drink Milk), Dairy Milk Fat Content (Whole Milk and Low Fat Milk), Dairy Milk Source (Sheep, Goat, Cow, Buffalo and Others), Dairy Milk Processing (Regular, Fortified, Ultra-High Processing (UHT) and Others), Dairy Milk Protein Variants (Casein, Whey and Others), Yoghurt Type (Regular, Drinkable, Frozen, Greek, Spoonable and Others), Flavors (Plain and Flavored), Butter Type (Salted, Unsalted Dipped, Clarified and Others), Method Of Preparation(Bacteria-Ripened, Mould-Ripened and Un-Ripened), Texture (Fresh, Hard and Soft), Color (Yellow, White and Blue), Form (Slice, Block/Cans, Grated, Spread and Others), Type (Ice-Cream, Custard, Cheese Based Desserts and Others), Brand (Branded and Private Label) and Distribution Channel (Store Based Retailing and Non-Store Based Retailing) - Industry Trends and Forecast to 2033
West Africa Dairy Market Size
- The West Africa dairy market size was valued at USD 3.05 billion in 2025 and is expected to reach USD 3.69 billion by 2033, at a CAGR of 2.40% during the forecast period
- The market growth is largely fuelled by rising population growth, increasing urbanisation, and growing demand for affordable nutrition
- In addition, improving cold chain infrastructure and gradual modernisation of dairy processing are supporting market expansion
West Africa Dairy Market Analysis
- The market is characterised by strong demand for basic dairy staples, with consumption driven by price sensitivity and availability
- Informal supply chains coexist with organised players, shaping competitive dynamics and pricing structures
- Nigeria dairy dominated the West Africa dairy market with a notable revenue share in 2025, fueled by its large population base and high consumption of milk and milk-based products
- Ghana is expected to witness the highest compound annual growth rate (CAGR) in the West Africa dairy market due to rising health awareness, increasing adoption of packaged and value-added dairy products, expanding retail infrastructure, and supportive government initiatives promoting local dairy consumption
- The milk segment held the largest market revenue share in 2025 driven by its role as a staple food product and its widespread consumption across urban and rural populations. Milk products, particularly UHT milk and milk powder, benefit from affordability, long shelf life, and suitability for regions with limited cold storage, supporting high penetration levels
Report Scope and West Africa Dairy Market Segmentation
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Attributes |
West Africa Dairy Key Market Insights |
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Segments Covered |
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Countries Covered |
West Africa
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Key Market Players |
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Market Opportunities |
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Value Added Data Infosets |
In addition to the insights on market scenarios such as market value, growth rate, segmentation, geographical coverage, and major players, the market reports curated by the Data Bridge Market Research also include in-depth expert analysis, pricing analysis, brand share analysis, consumer survey, demography analysis, supply chain analysis, value chain analysis, raw material/consumables overview, vendor selection criteria, PESTLE Analysis, Porter Analysis, and regulatory framework. |
West Africa Dairy Market Trends
“Rise Of Affordable And Packaged Dairy Consumption In West Africa”
• The growing preference for affordable and packaged dairy products is reshaping the West Africa dairy market, driven by rapid urbanisation and changing dietary habits across major cities and towns. Shelf-stable products such as UHT milk, milk powder, and packaged yoghurt are gaining traction due to their longer shelf life and suitability for regions with limited refrigeration, supporting wider consumer adoption and reducing dependency on fresh milk availability
• Rising demand in semi-urban and rural areas is accelerating the penetration of small pack sizes and low-cost dairy offerings through local retail channels. These products cater to price-sensitive consumers while improving access to essential nutrition, particularly in regions where fresh milk availability remains inconsistent and traditional supply chains are fragmented
• Improvements in packaging technologies and distribution efficiency are enabling manufacturers to reduce spoilage and extend product reach across longer distances. This has encouraged both regional and international players to expand their footprints, strengthen retail partnerships, and enhance overall market competitiveness and product availability
• For instance, in 2023, several West African dairy processors expanded UHT milk distribution through informal retail networks and neighbourhood stores. This resulted in higher consumption among low-income households, improved market penetration in secondary cities, and increased brand visibility across emerging urban clusters
• While packaged dairy demand continues to rise, sustained growth depends on strengthening cold chain systems and last-mile distribution capabilities. In addition, maintaining product affordability and adapting formulations to local taste preferences are essential to maximise long-term market penetration
West Africa Dairy Market Dynamics
Driver
“Rising Population Growth And Increasing Demand For Nutritional Food Products”
• Rapid population growth and a young demographic profile across West Africa are significantly increasing demand for affordable nutritional food products, including dairy. Milk and dairy products are increasingly viewed as essential sources of protein and calcium, driving consistent consumption growth across households and institutional buyers
• Growing awareness of malnutrition and dietary deficiencies is encouraging households to incorporate dairy into daily diets, particularly for children and the elderly. Government-led nutrition programs, school feeding initiatives, and public health campaigns are further supporting dairy consumption across low-income and rural populations
• Expanding urban centres and rising disposable incomes, albeit uneven, are contributing to higher demand for packaged and branded dairy products. This shift is supported by the growth of modern retail formats, improved product availability, and increased exposure to global food consumption trends
• For instance, in 2022, multiple West African governments integrated milk powder and fortified dairy products into public nutrition schemes. This led to increased procurement volumes, predictable demand cycles, and improved revenue visibility for both local and regional dairy suppliers
• While demographic and nutritional drivers remain strong, ensuring consistent supply and quality control is critical for market stability. In addition, managing price volatility and improving local sourcing are essential to sustaining long-term market growth
Restraint/Challenge
“Limited Local Milk Production and Heavy Dependence iion Imports”
• Limited domestic milk production remains a major challenge for the West Africa dairy market, primarily due to low-yield livestock breeds and inadequate feed availability. Limited access to modern farming practices and veterinary services further constrains the supply of fresh milk for organised processing
• The region’s heavy reliance on imported milk powder exposes the market to global price volatility and foreign exchange risks. Fluctuating import costs often translate into higher consumer prices, which directly affect affordability, demand stability, and profit margins for local processors
• Weak cold chain infrastructure and fragmented milk collection networks further restrict efficient sourcing and distribution of fresh dairy products. These structural gaps increase spoilage rates, raise operational costs, and limit the scalability of local dairy operations across rural areas
For instance, in 2023, Irish dairy exporters sold over €327.8 million worth of fat‑filled milk powder (FFMP) to West African markets, with Nigeria alone accounting for about €88.4 million of these exports. This influx of cheap imported dairy products increased dairy import bills for countries like Nigeria, placed additional pressure on local processors, strained retail pricing strategies, and reduced competitiveness against informal and imported dairy alternatives, while deepening dependency on foreign milk powder
• While investments in local dairy farming are increasing, addressing productivity gaps remains a long-term challenge. In addition, improving supply chains and reducing import dependence are essential to strengthening market resilience and unlocking sustainable growth potential
West Africa Dairy Market Scope
The market is segmented on the basis of dairy product type, milk product type, dairy milk type, dairy milk fat content, dairy milk source, dairy milk processing, dairy milk protein variants, yoghurt type, flavors, butter type, cheese method of preparation, cheese texture, cheese color, form, dairy dessert type, brand, and distribution channel
• By Dairy Product Type
On the basis of dairy product type, the West Africa dairy market is segmented into Milk, Cheese, Butter, Yoghurt, Dairy Dessert and Others. The milk segment held the largest market revenue share in 2025 driven by its role as a staple food product and its widespread consumption across urban and rural populations. Milk products, particularly UHT milk and milk powder, benefit from affordability, long shelf life, and suitability for regions with limited cold storage, supporting high penetration levels.
The yoghurt segment is expected to witness the fastest growth rate from 2026 to 2033, driven by increasing consumer preference for convenient and value-added dairy products. Rising urbanisation, growing health awareness, and the availability of flavoured and packaged yoghurt options are supporting higher demand, particularly among younger consumers and middle-income households.
• By Milk Product Type
On the basis of milk product type, the market is segmented into Regular, Lactose-Free, Organic and Others. The regular milk segment accounted for the largest revenue share in 2025 due to its affordability, broad availability, and strong consumer familiarity across the region. Regular milk continues to be widely consumed across income groups, supported by traditional dietary habits and extensive distribution through both formal and informal retail channels.
The lactose-free is expected to witness the fastest growth rate from 2026 to 2033, supported by rising health awareness and changing dietary preferences in urban areas. Increasing diagnosis of lactose intolerance and gradual premiumisation among middle-income consumers are encouraging demand for specialised milk variants. Improved product availability and marketing efforts are further supporting segment growth
• By Dairy Milk Type
On the basis of dairy milk type, the market is segmented into Milk Powder, Evaporated Milk, Skimmed Milk and Ready To Drink Milk. Milk powder dominated the market in 2025 owing to its long shelf life, ease of transportation, and extensive use in household consumption and food processing applications. Its suitability for regions with limited cold storage makes it a preferred option for both consumers and institutional buyers.
Ready to drink milk is projected to register the fastest growth from 2026 to 2033, driven by convenience and changing consumption patterns. Improving retail availability, growth of modern trade, and increasing demand for packaged beverages in urban centres are supporting this trend. Rising on-the-go consumption is further boosting demand.
• By Dairy Milk Fat Content
On the basis of dairy milk fat content, the market is segmented into Whole Milk and Low Fat Milk. Whole milk held the largest market share in 2025 due to traditional consumption preferences and its perceived nutritional value among households. It remains widely used for direct consumption as well as cooking purposes across the region.
Low fat milk is expected to witness the fastest growth rate from 2026 to 2033, supported by rising health consciousness and growing awareness of lifestyle-related health issues. Urban consumers are increasingly focusing on balanced diets, which is gradually supporting demand for reduced-fat dairy options.
• By Dairy Milk Source
On the basis of dairy milk source, the market is segmented into Sheep, Goat, Cow, Buffalo and Others. Cow milk accounted for the largest revenue share in 2025 owing to its widespread availability and well-established supply chains. Its versatility in processing and suitability for multiple dairy products further support its dominance.
Goat is expected to witness the fastest growth rate from 2026 to 2033, driven by niche demand and traditional consumption patterns in select areas. Perceived health benefits and rising interest in alternative milk sources are also contributing to steady growth.
• By Dairy Milk Processing
On the basis of dairy milk processing, the market is segmented into Regular, Fortified, Ultra-High Processing (UHT) and Others. UHT milk dominated the market in 2025 due to its extended shelf life and suitability for regions with limited cold chain infrastructure. Its convenience and reduced spoilage risk make it highly attractive for both consumers and distributors.
Fortified milk is expected to witness the fastest growth rate from 2026 to 2033, supported by government nutrition initiatives and increasing focus on addressing micronutrient deficiencies. Growing awareness of fortified foods is also encouraging adoption among households.
• By Dairy Milk Protein Variants
On the basis of dairy milk protein variants, the market is segmented into Casein, Whey and Others. Casein held the largest market share in 2025 due to its extensive use in traditional dairy products and processed food applications. Its functional properties and wide availability support strong demand across the value chain.
The whey segment is expected to witness faster growth from 2026 to 2033, driven by rising demand for protein-enriched foods and beverages. Increasing health and fitness awareness among younger consumers is further supporting segment expansion.
• By Yoghurt Type
On the basis of yoghurt type, the market is segmented into Regular, Drinkable, Frozen, Greek, Spoonable and Others. Regular yoghurt accounted for the largest revenue share in 2025 due to affordability and widespread household consumption. Its familiarity and availability through local retail channels support consistent demand.
Drinkable is expected to witness the fastest growth rate from 2026 to 2033, supported by convenience and on-the-go consumption trends. Expanding retail presence and increased product innovation are further driving consumer interest.
• By Flavors
On the basis of flavors, the market is segmented into Plain and Flavored. Plain dairy products dominated the market in 2025 due to traditional taste preferences and versatile usage in cooking and daily consumption. They remain widely accepted across different age groups and income levels.
Flavored variants is expected to witness the fastest growth rate from 2026 to 2033, driven by younger demographics and evolving taste preferences. Increased availability of fruit and dessert-inspired flavours is supporting demand, particularly in urban markets.
• By Butter Type
On the basis of butter type, the market is segmented into Salted, Unsalted, Dipped, Clarified and Others. Salted butter held the largest market share in 2025 due to longer shelf life and widespread culinary usage. Its ease of storage and familiarity among consumers support steady demand.
Clarified butter is expected to witness the fastest growth rate from 2026 to 2033, supported by traditional consumption patterns and rising interest in indigenous food products. Its use in cooking and foodservice applications is further contributing to growth.
• By Cheese Method Of Preparation
On the basis of method of preparation, the market is segmented into Bacteria-Ripened, Mould-Ripened and Un-Ripened. Un-ripened cheese dominated the market in 2025 due to its affordability and familiarity among consumers. Its suitability for local cuisines and simpler processing methods support higher adoption.
Bacteria-ripened cheese is expected to witness the fastest growth rate from 2026 to 2033, driven by gradual diversification of diets. Expanding urban demand and increasing exposure to international food trends are supporting this segment.
• By Cheese Texture
On the basis of cheese texture, the market is segmented into Fresh, Hard and Soft. Fresh cheese accounted for the largest revenue share in 2025 owing to its lower cost and suitability for local culinary applications. Its shorter processing time and widespread availability support strong demand.
Hard cheese is expected to witness the fastest growth rate from 2026 to 2033 with increasing exposure to western diets. Growth in foodservice outlets and quick service restaurants is further supporting demand.
• By Cheese Color
On the basis of cheese color, the market is segmented into Yellow, White and Blue. White cheese dominated the market in 2025 due to traditional preferences and wider availability across retail formats. Its familiarity and usage in everyday cooking support consistent consumption.
Yellow cheese is expected to witness the fastest growth rate from 2026 to 2033 driven by increasing usage in fast food and quick service restaurants. Rising consumption of burgers and sandwiches is supporting this trend.
• By Form
On the basis of form, the market is segmented into Slice, Block/Cans, Grated, Spread and Others. Block and can forms held the largest share in 2025 due to ease of storage, transportation, and bulk usage. These formats are widely preferred by households and foodservice operators.
Sliced is expected to witness the fastest growth rate from 2026 to 2033, supported by convenience and changing consumption habits. Rising urban lifestyles and demand for ready-to-use products are driving growth.
• By Dairy Dessert Type
On the basis of dairy dessert type, the market is segmented into Ice-Cream, Custard, Cheese Based Desserts and Others. Ice-cream dominated the market in 2025 driven by high demand across age groups and strong seasonal consumption patterns. Its wide availability and flavour variety support consistent sales.
Cheese based desserts is expected to witness the fastest growth rate from 2026 to 2033, supported by product innovation and premium offerings. Increasing urbanisation and exposure to global dessert trends are driving consumer interest.
• By Brand
On the basis of brand, the market is segmented into Branded and Private Label. Branded products held the largest revenue share in 2025 due to stronger consumer trust and established distribution networks. Brand recognition and perceived quality continue to influence purchasing decisions.
Private label products is expected to witness the fastest growth rate from 2026 to 2033, supported by price competitiveness and expansion of organised retail. Increasing acceptance of store brands is contributing to gradual growth.
• By Distribution Channel
On the basis of distribution channel, the market is segmented into Store Based Retailing and Non-Store Based Retailing. Store based retailing dominated the market in 2025 owing to the strong presence of traditional retail outlets, supermarkets, and local shops. Widespread physical availability supports consistent consumer access.
Non-store based retailing is expected to witness the fastest growth rate from 2026 to 2033, driven by increasing internet penetration and growing use of digital platforms. Gradual adoption of e-commerce and mobile-based ordering is supporting channel expansion.
West Africa Dairy Market Regional Analysis
- Nigeria dairy dominated the West Africa dairy market with a notable revenue share in 2025, fueled by its large population base and high consumption of milk and milk-based products
- Rapid urbanisation and changing dietary habits are driving strong demand for milk powder, UHT milk, and packaged yoghurt
- In addition, government initiatives aimed at boosting local milk production and reducing reliance on imports are supporting long-term market development and supply chain improvements
Ghana Dairy Market Insight
The Ghana dairy market is expected to witness steady growth from 2026 to 2033, driven by increasing health awareness and rising preference for packaged dairy products. Urban consumers are gradually shifting toward branded milk and yoghurt due to improved product availability and perceived quality. The expansion of modern retail formats and supportive agribusiness policies are further strengthening market growth.
Ivory Coast Dairy Market Insight
The Ivory Coast dairy market is expected to witness steady growth from 2026 to 2033, supported by rising urbanisation and increasing demand for affordable dairy nutrition. Consumption of milk powder and flavoured yoghurt is gaining momentum, particularly in urban centres. Improving distribution infrastructure and growing investments by regional dairy processors are enhancing product penetration.
Togo Dairy Market Insight
The Togo dairy market is expected to witness moderate growth from 2026 to 2033, driven by population growth and gradual adoption of packaged dairy products. Milk powder remains the dominant product due to affordability and ease of storage. Increasing availability through local retail outlets is supporting steady consumption growth.
Benin Dairy Market Insight
The Benin dairy market is expected to witness steady growth from 2026 to 2033, supported by traditional dairy consumption patterns and rising urban demand for packaged milk products. Improving retail access and increasing consumer awareness of nutritional benefits are contributing to market expansion, despite continued dependence on imported dairy products.
Burkina Faso Dairy Market Insight
The Burkina Faso dairy market is expected to witness steady growth from 2026 to 2033, driven by population growth and increasing demand for basic dairy products. While fresh milk consumption remains prevalent in rural areas, packaged milk powder and UHT milk are gaining acceptance in urban markets. Ongoing efforts to strengthen local dairy farming and processing are expected to support long-term market development.
West Africa Dairy Market Share
The West Africa dairy industry is primarily led by well-established companies, including:
- Nestlé Ghana Limited (Ghana)
- Fan Milk Limited (Ghana)
- FrieslandCampina WAMCO Nigeria Plc (Nigeria)
- Nestlé Nigeria Plc (Nigeria)
- Chi Limited (Nigeria)
- Promasidor Nigeria Limited (Nigeria)
- Tolaram Africa Foods – Dairy Division (Nigeria)
- SIVAC Industrie S.A. (Ivory Coast)
- FrieslandCampina Côte d’Ivoire S.A. (Ivory Coast)
- SOCOCE Laiterie Ivoirienne (Ivory Coast)
- Laiterie du Togo (Togo)
- Fromagerie du Bénin (Benin)
- SOBEBRA Dairy Division (Benin)
- Laiterie du Sahel (Burkina Faso)
- Faso Lait S.A. (Burkina Faso)
Latest Developments in West Africa Dairy Market
- In March 2021, Fair Cape Dairies implemented a solar farm as part of its sustainability initiatives. The development focuses on using renewable energy to power milk processing operations, enhancing production efficiency across the African region. This move is expected to reduce operational costs and lower the company’s carbon footprint. By adopting green energy, Fair Cape strengthens its position as an environmentally responsible player in the dairy industry. The initiative also supports increased milk output, meeting growing regional demand and positively impacting the West Africa dairy market
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West Africa Dairy Market, Supply Chain Analysis and Ecosystem Framework
To support market growth and help clients navigate the impact of geopolitical shifts, DBMR has integrated in-depth supply chain analysis into its West Africa Dairy Market research reports. This addition empowers clients to respond effectively to global changes affecting their industries. The supply chain analysis section includes detailed insights such as West Africa Dairy Market consumption and production by country, price trend analysis, the impact of tariffs and geopolitical developments, and import and export trends by country and HSN code. It also highlights major suppliers with data on production capacity and company profiles, as well as key importers and exporters. In addition to research, DBMR offers specialized supply chain consulting services backed by over a decade of experience, providing solutions like supplier discovery, supplier risk assessment, price trend analysis, impact evaluation of inflation and trade route changes, and comprehensive market trend analysis.
Research Methodology
Data collection and base year analysis are done using data collection modules with large sample sizes. The stage includes obtaining market information or related data through various sources and strategies. It includes examining and planning all the data acquired from the past in advance. It likewise envelops the examination of information inconsistencies seen across different information sources. The market data is analysed and estimated using market statistical and coherent models. Also, market share analysis and key trend analysis are the major success factors in the market report. To know more, please request an analyst call or drop down your inquiry.
The key research methodology used by DBMR research team is data triangulation which involves data mining, analysis of the impact of data variables on the market and primary (industry expert) validation. Data models include Vendor Positioning Grid, Market Time Line Analysis, Market Overview and Guide, Company Positioning Grid, Patent Analysis, Pricing Analysis, Company Market Share Analysis, Standards of Measurement, Global versus Regional and Vendor Share Analysis. To know more about the research methodology, drop in an inquiry to speak to our industry experts.
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