Finland's Dairy Industry Overview
Finland's dairy industry stands out for its high standards and efficiency, playing a crucial role in the country's agricultural success. The industry not only satisfies domestic needs but also contributes significantly to exports, marking Finland as an important player in the global dairy market.
Milk Production
In 2022, Finland produced approximately 2.3 billion liters of milk. This substantial volume highlights Finland's capacity to meet both domestic consumption and export demands.
Dairy Cattle and Goats
The foundation of Finland's milk production includes around 270,000 dairy cattle, complemented by approximately 2,000 dairy goats. This diverse livestock base supports a variety of dairy products, particularly in specialty segments.
Milk Processing and Dairy Products
Finland processes about 2 billion liters of milk annually, turning it into a wide range of products, including approximately 100,000 tons of cheese, 50,000 tons of milk powder, and 40,000 tons of whey each year. These products cater to both local and international markets.
Key Dairy Enterprises and Plants
Several key enterprises dominate Finland's dairy market:
- Valio: Plants in Riihimäki, Seinäjoki, Jyväskylä, and Oulu.
- Arla Finland: Plant located in Sipoo.
- Ingman: Plant in Sipoo.
List of Dairy Farms
- Hämeenlinnan Maitotila
- Laitilan Maitotila
- Kärsämäen Maitotila
- Vesilahden Maitotila
Export and Import of Dairy Products
In 2022, Finland's dairy exports were valued at over 300 million euros, with major export destinations including Sweden, Germany, and China. Imports, mainly of specialty cheeses and infant formulas, amounted to approximately 100 million euros.
Significant Industry Events
Recent significant events in the Finnish dairy industry include Valio's strategic shift of production from Helsinki and Turku to the Riihimäki plant to enhance efficiency. Oddlygood's expansion into the UK and Europe, as well as Valio's investment in Joensuu's cheese maturation, highlight evolving strategies to meet market demands.
Market Trends and Future Outlook
The Finnish dairy sector faces challenges such as rising costs and potential farm closures. However, innovative practices, such as using dairy byproducts for mycelium production, and increased demand for specific products are driving future trends. Sustainability initiatives, like Valio's Esko tool for ESG compliance and a €30 million investment in expanding cheese maturation, reflect the industry's commitment to evolution despite a 12% drop in milk prices adding pressure on producers.
Skyr was previously manufactured by Arla only in Finland before expanding to Sweden.
Modified: 2025/05/18