Kerala Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (KCMMF), known as Milma, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding to export dairy products to Australia and New Zealand, marking a significant expansion in its global operations.
The Kerala Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (KCMMF), widely recognized as Milma, is making strides in its international presence by signing a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at exporting dairy products to Australia and New Zealand. This initiative represents Milma’s first major foray beyond the Gulf countries, where its products have already gained popularity, particularly among the non-resident Keralite (NRK) community.
The MoU was formalized by KCMMF Managing Director Asif K. Yusuf, RG Foods Executive Director Vishnu G, and Midnightsun Global proprietor Bindu Ganesh Kumar, with Milma Chairman K. S. Mani present at the signing ceremony. Under the terms of the agreement, RG Foods will manage the entire logistics chain, which includes product pick-up from Milma’s facilities, transportation, customs clearance, and freight forwarding. This ensures compliance with the import regulations of both Australia and New Zealand. Meanwhile, Midnightsun Global will serve as a coordinating partner, facilitating operations without holding ownership of the products.
K. S. Mani, the Chairman of Milma, characterized the agreement as a significant milestone in the cooperative’s efforts to reach international markets. He emphasized the brand’s commitment to high quality and health benefits, noting the substantial NRK populations in Australia and New Zealand, which present promising opportunities for Milma’s offerings.
The initial phase of exports will include products such as paneer, payasam mix, and dairy whitener. There are plans to expand the product range further to cater to other countries with notable Kerala diaspora communities. Asif K. Yusuf highlighted that Milma is committed to manufacturing and packaging these products in strict accordance with international quality standards.
Milma’s expanding global footprint not only enhances its market reach but also provides direct benefits to its member dairy farmers. Staying true to its cooperative principles, Milma distributed 92.5% of its profits to farmers in the previous fiscal year. The cooperative reported a consolidated turnover of Rs 4,327 crore for the fiscal year 2024–25.
This strategic move underscores Milma’s dedication to both quality and community, as it seeks to establish a strong presence in new international markets while supporting its local farmers.
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