A. M. 
The Banco Central de Reserva de El Salvador (BCR) reported that milk production accounts for 63% of cattle producers, according to preliminary data from the Fifth Agricultural Census 2025. The national cattle inventory reached 589,725 animals as of may 2, 2025.
The BCR notes that this strong focus on dairy production responds to sustained domestic demand and makes the activity a key source of income for thousands of rural families. The production structure is dominated by small and medium-sized producers, reinforcing the social and territorial character of the livestock sector.
In terms of marketing, meat and milk are distributed primarily through retailers and wholesalers, although direct sales to the end consumer maintain a significant share, opening opportunities to strengthen local markets and cooperative schemes that improve competitiveness.
According to the BCR, the census survey allows for the identification of challenges in productivity, animal health, and added value, but also highlights the sector’s potential to advance toward industrialization and greater integration into productivity.
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