Pathology of Milk Distribution Network in Iran

Document Type : Original Article

Abstract

    The paper is to consider milk distribution network in Iran. In this regard first of all the economic indexes of milk market consist of production, consumption, per capita consumption, export and import are studied. After that the viewpoints of milk producers, consumers and distributors about main issues of distribution network such as: protection polices, organization of policy making and legislation, sort of market, size of market, cost distribution, period of distribution, standardization and price fluctuation are studied. There have been attempts to recognize weaknesses and strengths of such a network from production to consumption depending on the current theories, norms, and field studies.   The results indicate that the share of organized and large companies and chain stores in distribution network in Iran is small. There is a narrow gap between production and consumption and the main reason for high price gap between consumption and production is high cost of transportation and rottenness. Producers, consumers and distributors are assented to effective presence of government in all steps of distribution network and to go on certified milk purchase.   Consumers propose to provide milk for students and the deprived, but producers and distributors are believed in changing current protection polices for production.