Collaboration Takes Center Stage at Global Dairy Summit
Source: DairyNews.today
The World Dairy Summit in Paris last month showcased a growing emphasis on collaboration within the global dairy sector, as leaders from around the world gathered to discuss key challenges and opportunities, reports Samantha Tennent.
The summit, hosted by the International Dairy Federation (IDF), brought together industry stakeholders fr om all parts of the dairy supply chain. Key meetings, including the Global Dairy Platform (GDP) annual gathering, were also held alongside the event.
A delegation of around 18 New Zealand representatives attended, including influential figures such as Richard McIntyre, chair of the Federated Farmers dairy sector, and Kylie Leonard, a Fonterra co-operative councillor. The event offered attendees the chance to visit farms, engage in business discussions, and take part in presentations and panel sessions focused on dairy sector trends.
A significant takeaway from this year's summit was the shift toward collaboration across the dairy industry. Conversations highlighted the importance of working together to support farmers throughout the value chain, with a clear recognition that collective action is needed to address sector-wide challenges.
Kylie Leonard noted the recurring theme of financial sustainability, emphasizing that farming must remain economically viable to ensure global food security. “Dairy is not only critical for its nutritional value but also plays a vital role socially, economically, and environmentally,” she remarked.
The International Farm Comparison Network (IFCN) underscored some pressing concerns, including heat stress on dairy production. Their future heat maps projected challenges for milk production in certain regions, pointing to the growing impact of environmental stress on animal welfare.
Kimberley Crewther from Dairy Companies Association of New Zealand (DCANZ) highlighted biosecurity and animal disease issues facing countries around the world. Europe is currently grappling with blue tongue, while the United States is managing bird flu outbreaks. This was a timely reminder for New Zealand, wh ere the Biosecurity Act is under review.
Richard McIntyre assured that New Zealand farmers can take comfort knowing that sector leaders are actively participating in these international events. This helps them stay informed on global developments, anticipate changes, and prepare for emerging challenges.
Reflecting on the experience, Tennent observed that despite varying farming systems, the core issues facing dairy producers worldwide remain similar. A sentiment echoed by US dairy farmer Mary Kraft, who summed up the reality of farming with an apt analogy: “Farming is like a game of poker – everyone has their hand, and they have to make the most of the cards they’re dealt.”
The 2025 IDF World Dairy Summit will be held in Chile, and New Zealand is set to host the event in November 2026.
A delegation of around 18 New Zealand representatives attended, including influential figures such as Richard McIntyre, chair of the Federated Farmers dairy sector, and Kylie Leonard, a Fonterra co-operative councillor. The event offered attendees the chance to visit farms, engage in business discussions, and take part in presentations and panel sessions focused on dairy sector trends.
A significant takeaway from this year's summit was the shift toward collaboration across the dairy industry. Conversations highlighted the importance of working together to support farmers throughout the value chain, with a clear recognition that collective action is needed to address sector-wide challenges.
Kylie Leonard noted the recurring theme of financial sustainability, emphasizing that farming must remain economically viable to ensure global food security. “Dairy is not only critical for its nutritional value but also plays a vital role socially, economically, and environmentally,” she remarked.
The International Farm Comparison Network (IFCN) underscored some pressing concerns, including heat stress on dairy production. Their future heat maps projected challenges for milk production in certain regions, pointing to the growing impact of environmental stress on animal welfare.
Kimberley Crewther from Dairy Companies Association of New Zealand (DCANZ) highlighted biosecurity and animal disease issues facing countries around the world. Europe is currently grappling with blue tongue, while the United States is managing bird flu outbreaks. This was a timely reminder for New Zealand, wh ere the Biosecurity Act is under review.
Richard McIntyre assured that New Zealand farmers can take comfort knowing that sector leaders are actively participating in these international events. This helps them stay informed on global developments, anticipate changes, and prepare for emerging challenges.
Reflecting on the experience, Tennent observed that despite varying farming systems, the core issues facing dairy producers worldwide remain similar. A sentiment echoed by US dairy farmer Mary Kraft, who summed up the reality of farming with an apt analogy: “Farming is like a game of poker – everyone has their hand, and they have to make the most of the cards they’re dealt.”
The 2025 IDF World Dairy Summit will be held in Chile, and New Zealand is set to host the event in November 2026.
