In recent years, there has been renewed interest in commercial goat production for meat and milk. There may be some opportunities for dairy goat products in the province. Goats can supply the demand for milk for lactose intolerant individuals. A growing ethnic community in major urban centers consumes goat products as well. Small scale production can be started at very little cost and secondary processing is possible on a small scale. Also goat production requires less land base than is needed for cattle and it can be combined with other small scale agricultural activities. However the economies of goat production should be closely examined before investing into this industry.
Industry Challenges
In order to advance this industry, a variety of challenges need to be overcome including:
- A need for financing of livestock purchases and other infrastructure requirements.
- A need for a good marketing and distribution system for milk, dairy and meat goat products.
- Training is required for processors of dairy goat products.
- Knowledge of good animal husbandry is required.
- The high costs of land development for forage and pasture which affects producers ability to expand.