Zimbabwe’s commercial milk production surged by seven percent to 40 million litres during the first four months of 2026, bringing the country closer to its goal of national milk self-sufficiency as Government continues to implement measures aimed at revitalising the dairy sector.
According to the Zimbabwe Economic Review yesterday, milk production increased from 38 million litres recorded during the same period last year, reflecting sustained growth across all four months under review.
The publication said January production rose by nine percent to 10.6 million litres, while February output increased by eight percent to 9.4 million litres.
“March commercial milk production climbed six percent to 10.2 million litres, while April output grew five percent to 10.1 million litres,” the Zimbabwe Economic Review said.
The Zimbabwe Economic Review said the country was steadily moving towards achieving milk self-sufficiency, with 2026 projected to become a landmark year for the sector.
“Government expects 2026 to mark national milk self-sufficiency after sector growth of 129 percent since 2017,” the publication said.
However, despite the positive production gains, the Zimbabwe Economic Review noted that dairy imports rose sharply during the same period due to growing domestic demand and expanding industrial capacity.
“Dairy imports surged 72 percent to US$8.7 million in the first four months of 2026, reflecting rising demand, expanding processing capacity and higher disposable incomes,” the publication said.
Zimbabwe’s dairy sector has recorded consistent recovery over the past several years following Government-led interventions aimed at increasing national herd capacity, improving genetics and supporting dairy value chain financing.
The country is targeting annual milk production exceeding 200 million litres by 2030 as part of wider agricultural and industrial growth strategies.
