France: A Powerhouse in the Global Dairy Industry

France is a significant contributor to the global dairy industry, excelling in both production and international market presence. Its robust dairy sector supports a vast range of products that are integral to both the domestic and export markets.

Milk Production and Dairy Cattle

France boasts approximately 3.8 million dairy cows, contributing to an estimated 25 billion liters of milk produced annually. This positions France as one of the leading milk producers both in Europe and globally.

Milk Processing and Key Enterprises

With a processing volume of around 23 billion liters of milk per year, France is home to major dairy enterprises like Danone and Lactalis. Danone is channeling a €70 million investment to boost domestic production, particularly focusing on medical nutrition. On a global scale, Lactalis is broadening its reach with acquisitions in Colombia and Germany.

Cheese Production

The French cheese industry is iconic and monumental, producing about 1.9 million tonnes annually. French cheese is renowned worldwide, retaining a strong presence in both domestic and international markets.

Milk Powder and Whey Production

In the domain of milk powder and whey production, France plays a vital role, manufacturing around 1.4 million tonnes per year. These products are essential components of the broader dairy supply chain, catering to various industry needs.

Dairy Farms

• Ferme des Peupliers
• La Ferme du Sart
• Ferme de Viltain

Exports and Imports

France's dairy exports are valued at approximately €8 billion annually, with cheese being a cornerstone of these exports. In contrast, imports account for around €3 billion, predominantly sourced from other European Union countries.

Recent Dairy Market Events

• Danone obtained approval to sell its Russian assets, redirecting focus towards domestic growth.
• Lactalis extended its operations to Colombia and acquired BMI Dairy Assets in Germany.
• The EU forecasts a 0.4% rise in French milk deliveries by 2024 due to increasing raw milk prices, currently at approximately 45.89 euro cents per kg.
• Ysco manages up to 190 million liters of ice cream annually between Belgium and France.
• Lactalis purchased General Mills' US yogurt business, enhancing its global reach.
• The World Dairy Summit in Paris underscored sustainable dairy practices.
• Outbreaks of Bluetongue and EHD have posed challenges in Northern French dairy operations.
• The FNSEA announced protests about EU-Mercosur trade talks, impacting market dynamics.
• Danone facilitates trade relations between China and the EU and collaborates with Maersk on sustainable shipping strategies.
• Lactalis intends to reduce milk intake in France by 450 million liters to adapt to market conditions.
• Danone proposed acquiring more shares in Lifeway Foods.
• The Nutri-Score initiative places France at the forefront of the dairy sector.
• Farmgate prices reaching record highs showcase evolving global market trends.
• Challenges from ongoing EU-Mercosur trade negotiations persist.
• Significant growth is projected in the poultry feed sector.
• Artisan pastry chefs like Arnaud Delmontel are innovating amid rising butter prices.
• Danone revealed a €100 million investment strategy in Mexico.
• French food safety agencies maintain rigorous checks against avian flu.
• Sodiaal announced novel improvements in production methodologies.
• Roquefort cheese commemorates its centennial PDO status, epitomizing France's rich dairy legacy.
• Danone reports increasing consumer interest in Skyr within France.
• In January, the milk price in France was nearly 50.97 ct/kg.
• Minister of Agriculture Annie Genevard opposes new Nutri-Score labeling in France.
• Agroholding 'Steppe' now fully controls 'RZ Agro' after acquiring it from the Louis-Dreyfus family.
• Lactalis boosted its investments in Brazil, concentrating on cheese and butter production in Minas Gerais.
• French dairy giants Danone and Savencia saw significant stock gains.
• France maintains its role as a major butter supplier to China, illustrating its expansive trade reach.

Collaborations and expansions remain a prominent focus for French dairy enterprises like Danone and Lactalis, ensuring their competitive edge in a dynamic global market. The diverse range of ongoing events and strategic moves underscores France's integral role and adaptability in the ever-evolving dairy industry landscape.

Modified: 2025/04/12

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