Milk production systems in Latin America and the Caribbean: Biophysical, socio-economic, and environmental performance

This study analyzed dairy production systems in nine Latin American and Caribbean countries using 22 biophysical, socio-economic, and environmental indicators. It identified three country clusters based on performance. One group (e.g., Honduras, Nicaragua) showed low efficiency but globally competitive costs; another (e.g., Uruguay, Argentina, Costa Rica) had higher productivity and larger scale; and Chile stood out with the best overall indicators. The results support targeted policies and innovation programs to improve dairy production sustainably in the region.