Belgium Dairy Market Overview

The Belgian dairy market is a vibrant sector ensuring a significant contribution to domestic and international markets. As of June 2023, the sector experienced a notable rise in raw milk prices, indicating enhanced demand and a robust performance.

Key Metrics

• Number of Dairy Cattle/Year: Approximately 500,000
• Milk Production Volume/Year: Around 4 billion liters
• Milk Processing Volume/Year: Approximately 3.5 billion liters
• Cheese Production Volume/Year: Estimated at 1.2 million tons
• The Volume of Milk Powder and Whey Production/Year: Around 500,000 tons of milk powder and 250,000 tons of whey

Major Dairy Enterprises

• FrieslandCampina
• Milcobel
• Lactalis
• Danone
• Belgomilk

Notable Dairy Farms

• Farm A: Known for its organic milk production
• Farm B: Specializes in high-quality cheese production
• Farm C: Pioneer in sustainable dairy farming practices

Export and Import of Dairy Products

• Export: Approximately 2 billion euros worth of products per year
• Import: Around 1.5 billion euros worth of products per year

Significant Events in the Belgian Dairy Industry

The Belgian dairy industry has recently witnessed significant events. An unprecedented increase in raw milk prices as of June 2023 highlights strong market demand and vital sectoral developments.

In strategic corporate movements, the Belgian dairy cooperative Milcobel decided to divest its subsidiary Ysco, an ice cream manufacturer, to Davidson Kempner Capital Management. This decision is poised to influence the industry considerably.

The launch of the first Lely Orbiter in Belgium at Bart Vanderstraeten and Marijke d'Hertefelt's farm in Merchtem, Flemish Brabant, showcases technological advancements. However, challenges such as the Bluetongue Virus (BTV-3) affecting livestock indicate ongoing health challenges.

Belgian farmers remain integral to Arla Foods' operations, underscoring their importance in broader global dairy collaboration. Additionally, a group of five young dairy farmers from Deniliquin, along with their mentor, returned from Belgium after representing Australia at the prestigious 2024 Young Breeders School.

The plant in Ittervoort is strategically located to process the polyAl from beverage cartons recycled in Belgium. Countries like Belgium are facing increasing regulatory pressure to reduce farm emissions, potentially impacting livestock production.

Belgium is among the countries facing challenges from BTV-3 disease outbreaks and adverse weather conditions. Recently, Milcobel sold its ice cream subsidiary YSCO to focus on its core dairy business, shifting strategic focus within the industry.

Modified: 2025/02/05

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