Estonia's Dairy Industry Overview
Estonia's dairy industry is a vital component of its agricultural sector, marked by significant milk production and processing capabilities. As of 2023, the country boasts an estimated 86,000 dairy cattle, contributing to an annual milk production of approximately 800,000 tons. This robust production capacity enables Estonia to meet both national demands and export requirements effectively.
Milk Processing and Dairy Products
The processing capacity in Estonia is impressive, with around 750,000 tons of milk processed each year. This ensures that a substantial portion of the milk produced is utilized within the dairy sector, maintaining a high level of efficiency. Cheese production is a critical aspect of this processing, with Estonia producing about 25,000 tons annually. This contributes significantly to both domestic consumption and export markets.
In addition to cheese, Estonia produces approximately 10,000 tons of milk powder and whey annually. These products reflect the country's capability to diversify its dairy offerings and utilize milk derivatives for various applications.
Dairy Enterprises and Farms
Major dairy processing plants in Estonia include Valio Eesti, Tere AS, and E-piim. These companies are essential to the industry's infrastructure, ensuring that milk is processed efficiently and dairy products meet quality standards. Key dairy farms such as Väätsa Agro, Kõljala Põllumajanduse OÜ, and OÜ Vändra play substantial roles in maintaining the industry's productivity and supply chain.
Export and Import Dynamics
Estonia is active in the international dairy market, exporting approximately 40,000 tons of dairy products annually. The exports include a diverse range of items such as cheese, milk powder, and whey. The country also imports around 15,000 tons of dairy products each year to fulfill specific demands and product types not produced domestically.
Market Events and Price Trends
Recent observations in the Estonian dairy market show stability in raw milk prices compared to May 2023, with an increase noted compared to June 2023. These price dynamics reflect the broader market trends and supply-demand fluctuations. Looking forward, projections indicate a significant rise in milk prices by 2025, with expectations of a 20% increase, aligning with trends observed across the European Union.
Modified: 2025/12/23