Addressing Unfair Competition for Small Milk Producers
In Puebla, Mexico, the Secretaría de Agricultura y Desarrollo Urbano (SADER) plans to construct a milk processing plant and two collection centers in 2026, aiming to help small-scale milk producers receive fairer prices for their product. This initiative is part of the federal government’s program under Claudia Sheinbaum’s national plan for food self-sufficiency.
Background on Ana Laura Altamirano Pérez
Ana Laura Altamirano Pérez, the head of SADER in Puebla, has been actively working to address the challenges faced by small milk producers in the region. These producers have been struggling with unfair competition due to the presence of hoarders who buy milk at low prices, leaving many producers unable to cover their production costs.
Location and Capacity of Milk Production
Puebla produces approximately 400,000 liters of milk annually across six regions. This substantial volume suggests the feasibility of establishing collection centers in San Martín Texmelucan and Tecamachalco, areas with significant ganadera (livestock) activity.
Investment and Support for Milk Producers
Although the exact investment amount for these projects has not been disclosed, Altamirano Pérez remains optimistic about their realization in the coming year. The federal agricultural sector’s commitment to creating spaces for ganaderos (livestock producers) to commercialize or produce, thereby securing better incomes, is a promising sign.
Improving Milk Quality and Ganadera Strength
Altamirano Pérez highlighted that SADER is providing genetic material to enhance the quality of both meat and milk. Depending on the regions, they are also implementing cattle repopulation initiatives to bolster production units.
Placing the Milk Processing Plant
The Cholula region is being considered for the milk processing plant. SADER is currently analyzing the project’s viability and ensuring adequate resources are available for its implementation in 2026.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the main goal of these projects? The primary objective is to assist small-scale milk producers in Puebla by ensuring they receive fairer prices for their product.
- Which regions will benefit from the collection centers? The two collection centers will be established in San Martín Texmelucan and Tecamachalco, areas with substantial ganadera activity.
- What is the annual milk production in Puebla? Approximately 400,000 liters of milk are produced annually across six regions in Puebla.
- What support is being provided to milk producers? SADER is offering genetic material to improve milk and meat quality, as well as implementing cattle repopulation initiatives in specific regions.
- Where will the milk processing plant be located? The milk processing plant is being considered for the Cholula region, with SADER currently analyzing its feasibility and resource availability.
