France: A Powerhouse in the Global Dairy Industry

France stands as a dominant force in the global dairy sector, producing approximately 25 billion liters of milk annually. This impressive output is supported by a robust dairy cow population of around 3.8 million, underscoring France's agricultural strength and commitment to dairy farming.

Milk Processing and Key Enterprises

The French milk processing infrastructure is extensive, handling about 23 billion liters of milk per year. Prominent companies such as Danone and Lactalis play crucial roles in this sector. Danone has invested €70 million to enhance its production capabilities, while Lactalis has expanded its global presence with acquisitions in the US, Portugal, Germany, and Colombia.

Cheese Production

France is globally renowned for its cheese, producing approximately 1.9 million tonnes annually. This not only solidifies its status in both domestic and export markets but also reinforces French cheese as a symbol of culinary excellence.

Milk Powder and Whey Production

The country produces around 1.4 million tonnes of milk powder and whey annually, supporting a diverse range of industries within the dairy supply chain and bolstering strong export capabilities.

Exports and Imports

The French dairy industry excels in exports, valued at around €8 billion per year, with cheese being the leading product. Imports, primarily from EU countries, amount to approximately €3 billion. Notably, France was the top ice cream supplier to China, with exports valued at $5.1 million by the end of July.

Recent Dairy Market Events

• Danone received approval to sell its Russian assets, refocusing on domestic growth.
• Lactalis expanded its reach to Colombia and acquired assets in Germany.
• The EU projects a 0.4% increase in French milk deliveries by 2024, driven by rising raw milk prices.
• Challenges such as Bluetongue and EHD outbreaks affected Northern French dairy operations.
• FNSEA organized protests regarding EU-Mercosur trade talks.
• Danone enhances trade between China and the EU, collaborating with Maersk for sustainable shipping.
• Lactalis plans to reduce milk intake in France by 450 million liters in response to market changes.
• Lactalis purchased Fonterra's consumer brands for $3.845 billion NZD.

Innovation and Contracts

French dairy enterprises continue to innovate, implementing written contracts with fixed prices and participating in tripartite contract pilot projects involving farmers, processors, and retailers.

Historical Insights

The first ice cream parlour is traced back to 17th-century France, with Café Procope in Paris introducing gelato to the French public in 1686.

Upcoming Events

SPACE 2025 will be held at the Rennes Exhibition Centre, drawing exhibitors and visitors worldwide. Danone continues its expansion efforts, focusing on sustainable yogurt production and enhancing its supply chain with eco-friendly practices.

Challenges and Opportunities

French health authorities have announced a mass recall of several types of cheese due to listeriosis concerns. The affected cheeses include French-origin Camembert du Caractère Vieux Porche and Brie Royal Faucon. France is also concerned about potential duties impacting its dairy exports to China, valued at approximately €650 million annually. Europe benefits from strict quality regulations and a consumer preference for organic dairy products.

Danone plans to shut down its Blédina infant-cereal production facility in Villefranche-sur-Saône, France. The closure of the Blédina plant in France will affect 117 employees. The plant is responsible for producing Blédine and Phosphatine brands, primarily distributed in Europe and Africa. The decision to close stems from a decade-long decline in activity within a challenging market environment.

French milk prices are higher than those in Australia. The average price for milk in France is $2.44 per litre. Lactalis plans to cut its French milk processing by 450 million litres by 2030. This represents a 9% reduction aimed at shifting focus from bulk commodities to higher-margin products like cheese and yogurt.

Modified: 2025/11/07

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