Over 30% of Ukrainian Dairy Exports Target European Union Amidst Industry Adaptation
Source: The DairyNews
This year, more than 30% of Ukrainian dairy product exports have been directed towards the European Union, marking a significant step in the country's agricultural trade dynamics. As of May 28, a total of 58 Ukrainian producers of raw milk, ice cream, dairy products, and colostrum-based items have been authorized to export their goods to the EU, as reported by Ukrainian media and confirmed by Yelena Dadus, head of the Livestock and Breeding Division at the Ministry of Agrarian Policy and Food's Agrarian Development Department.
Speaking at Milky Forum 2024, Dadus highlighted the ongoing adaptations and developments within the Ukrainian dairy sector, particularly in aligning with European standards—a move that has been well-received by the market. "The industry's progression towards European regulatory standards has opened up significant opportunities, particularly for medium and small producers, who are increasingly understanding the importance of cooperation across the entire production chain," she noted.
According to Dadus, agricultural enterprises are responsible for producing over 90% of the milk intended for processing, with 'Extra class' milk—denoting higher quality—constituting more than 40% of this processed milk. This shift towards higher quality production has been instrumental in increasing the export potentials of Ukrainian dairy products, especially to the EU.
Dadus emphasized the necessity for Ukrainian exporting enterprises to meet stringent EU criteria for both finished products and raw materials. "Aligning with EU standards is crucial for our dairy industry not just to enhance market access but also to elevate the overall quality and safety of our dairy products," she explained.
This strategic pivot towards the European market reflects a broader effort by Ukraine to integrate more deeply with international standards, thereby enhancing its competitive stance in the global dairy market.
According to Dadus, agricultural enterprises are responsible for producing over 90% of the milk intended for processing, with 'Extra class' milk—denoting higher quality—constituting more than 40% of this processed milk. This shift towards higher quality production has been instrumental in increasing the export potentials of Ukrainian dairy products, especially to the EU.
Dadus emphasized the necessity for Ukrainian exporting enterprises to meet stringent EU criteria for both finished products and raw materials. "Aligning with EU standards is crucial for our dairy industry not just to enhance market access but also to elevate the overall quality and safety of our dairy products," she explained.
This strategic pivot towards the European market reflects a broader effort by Ukraine to integrate more deeply with international standards, thereby enhancing its competitive stance in the global dairy market.