Top 10 producers of raw camel milk in the world

With the 2023 FAOSTAT report highlighting the top global producers of raw camel milk, a deeper look reveals how this traditional resource is becoming an economic asset.

According to FAOSTAT 2023 data, the top 10 producers of raw camel milk are as follows:

These countries benefit from the natural adaptability of camels, which can endure long periods without water and survive on minimal forage—factors that give camel milk production an edge in regions where drought is frequent.

Camel milk, often dubbed “white gold” in dryland economies, is not only rich in vitamins C and B, iron, and unsaturated fats, but it is also considered to have medicinal properties, including anti-diabetic and anti-inflammatory effects. Compared to cow milk, camel milk requires less water input and has a lower environmental footprint in arid regions.

Economically, camel milk holds high market value, particularly in niche health-conscious markets in Europe, North America, and Asia. In countries such as the UAE and Saudi Arabia, camel milk has become a commercial product, processed into pasteurised milk, yoghurt, cheese, and even ice cream.

While domestic consumption dominates in most camel milk-producing countries, export is gradually increasing. The UAE has been at the forefront, exporting camel milk under brands like Camelicious to Europe and Asia. Saudi Arabia and Kenya are also exploring international markets as food safety standards and logistics improve.

Ethiopia and Somalia, despite having high production levels, face infrastructural challenges that limit their export potential.

Nevertheless, NGOs and development agencies are working with local cooperatives to strengthen cold chains and improve hygienic processing standards.

Camel milk is emerging from its traditional role to become a commodity with real economic promise. As the top producing countries invest in value chains and modern processing techniques, camel milk has the potential to become a competitive export product. Its resilience in drought-prone regions makes it not just a nutritional alternative, but a strategic asset in climate-resilient agriculture and trade.