France's Pivotal Role in the Global Dairy Industry

France is a prominent force in both the European and global dairy markets, supported by its significant dairy cattle population and expansive dairy infrastructure.

Milk Production and Dairy Cattle

France boasts an impressive population of 3.8 million dairy cows, contributing to an annual milk production of approximately 25 billion liters. This output positions France as a leading milk producer on both a continental and global scale.

Milk Processing and Key Enterprises

Annually, France processes around 23 billion liters of milk, converting it into a wide range of dairy products. Leading enterprises in this industry include Danone and Lactalis. Recently, Danone announced a €70 million investment to boost domestic production, particularly in medical nutrition. Lactalis, expanding its international footprint, has made recent acquisitions in Colombia and Southern Germany.

Cheese Production

Cheese is a cornerstone of French dairy, with production reaching approximately 1.9 million tonnes annually. This figure reflects strong domestic consumption and a robust export market.

Milk Powder and Whey Production

France annually produces about 1.4 million tonnes of milk powder and whey, underscoring its pivotal role in the global dairy supply chain.

List of 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 serving as a major export product. Additionally, the country imports around €3 billion worth of dairy products, primarily from other European Union countries.

Recent Dairy Market Events

• Danone secured approval to sell its Russian assets and announced significant investments in domestic production.
• Lactalis expanded operations in Colombia and acquired BMI Dairy Assets in Germany.
• The EU projects a 0.4% growth in French milk deliveries by 2024.
• Raw milk prices have risen to 45.89 euro cents per kg in France.
• Ysco distributes up to 190 million liters of ice cream annually in Belgium and France.
• Lactalis acquired General Mills' US yogurt business.
• The World Dairy Summit in Paris spotlighted sustainable dairy practices.
• Outbreaks of Bluetongue and EHD affected dairy operations in Northern France.
• The FNSEA announced protests against EU-Mercosur trade negotiations.
• Danone is mediating trade solutions between China and the EU concerning the EV sector and partnering with Maersk on sustainable shipping solutions.
• Lactalis plans to reduce its milk intake in France by 450 million liters.
• Danone has proposed acquiring additional shares of Lifeway Foods.
• The Nutri-Score initiative and France’s role as a leading whey exporter highlight its ongoing influence in the dairy sector.
• French giants Danone and Lactalis are advancing in the market through strategic actions.
• Farmgate prices in France are approaching record highs, reflecting the complex dynamics of the global dairy landscape.
• France faces challenges from the EU-Mercosur trade negotiations.
• Forecasts indicate growth in the poultry feed sector driven by recovery in French poultry production.
• Artisans like pastry chef Arnaud Delmontel continue to craft premium pastries amid rising butter prices.
• Danone plans a €100 million investment in operations in Mexico.
• French food safety agencies remain vigilant about avian flu.
• The French dairy cooperative Sodiaal plans to transition production.
• Celebrating its centennial PD0 status, Roquefort cheese highlights the rich tradition of French dairy products.
• Danone observed substantial consumer interest in France for Skyr, boosting sales volume.

France's milk price stood at 50.97 ct/kg in January.

Modified: 2025/03/10

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