H&N begins dairy exports to UAE, forecasts 100-150 tonnes for 2025

MOSCOW. June 16 (Interfax) - H&N (Health & Nutrition, which incorporates former assets of Danone that exited Russia) has commenced dairy product shipments to the UAE, the company said in a press release.

The trial shipment volume totaled 700 kg, comprising Prostokvashino brand cream and UHT milk, H&N said. All products were manufactured at the Yalutorovsk Dairy Plant, which obtained halal certification in early 2024 and received "Made in Russia" certification in early June.

"The trial export shipment marked a significant milestone in developing our international business line, enabling the company to lay the foundation for the logistical, financial and regulatory processes of exporting fresh dairy products to the UAE," the company said.

Exports to countries of the Persian Gulf, particularly the UAE, represent a strategically important area of H&N's business, company head Ruslan Alisultanov was quoted as saying. "The regional market is developing dynamically, with growing demand for quality dairy products. For us, this represents not just new sales, but an opportunity to establish Russian brands in the Middle East's premium segment," he said. "The successful launch proves Russian producers can not only meet the GCC's [Gulf Cooperation Council's] high standards, but compete with global dairy market leaders," he said.

The company plans to ship its first batch of cottage cheese and sour cream to the UAE by the end of June, followed by yogurts in August-September.

"Projected export volume to the UAE through 2025 is 100-150 tonnes. Product range and distribution will expand as sales develop," the company said.

As reported, the French company Danone, which operated in Russia in 1992-2023, completed its Russian business sale to Vamin R (Tatarstan) in May 2024. In September 2023, Danone Russia was rebranded as H&N (Health & Nutrition). The company produces its brands (Prostokvashino, Aktibio, Actimuno, Rastishka, Tyoma, Danissimo, Biobalance and Aktual) across 12 plants.

In 2024, the company increased revenue 21.6% to over 140 billion rubles. Production grew 20.6% to nearly 950,000 tonnes.