France: A Key Player in the Global Dairy Market

France has established itself as a dominant figure in the dairy industry, thanks to its extensive dairy farms, advanced processing facilities, and multinational companies like Danone and Lactalis.

Milk Production and Dairy Cattle

France boasts a large population of dairy cattle, contributing significantly to its milk production. As of the most recent reports, the country has approximately 3.8 million dairy cows.

In terms of production volume, France produces around 25 billion liters of milk annually, making it one of the top producers in the European Union and the world.

Milk Processing and Key Enterprises

France processes a substantial portion of its milk, ensuring a diverse range of dairy products. The milk processing volume is estimated to be around 23 billion liters per year.

Cheese Production

Cheese is one of France's most iconic dairy products. The nation produces approximately 1.9 million tonnes of cheese annually, catering to both domestic and international markets.

Milk Powder and Whey Production

France is also known for its production of milk powder and whey, with an annual production volume of approximately 1.4 million tonnes.

Key Dairy Enterprises

Danone: Headquartered at 17, Boulevard Haussmann, 75009 Paris, France. Danone is a global leader in dairy products, having recently announced a €70 million ($76 million) strategic investment to enhance its medical nutrition production capabilities in France.

Lactalis: Another major player in the dairy sector, Lactalis is expanding its operations internationally, including significant investments in Colombia and Southern Germany.

List of Dairy Farms

France is home to numerous dairy farms, contributing to its robust dairy industry. Some notable farms include:

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

Exports and Imports

France exports a significant volume of its dairy products. The annual export of dairy products is estimated to be around €8 billion, with cheese being one of the top-exported items.

On the import side, France imports dairy products worth approximately €3 billion annually, mainly from other EU countries to complement its domestic production.

Recent Dairy Market Events

• Danone received permission from Russian regulators to sell its assets in the Russian Federation.
• Danone's strategic investment of €70 million ($76 million) to enhance medical nutrition production capabilities in France.
• Lactalis' significant expansion in Colombia and the acquisition of BMI Dairy Assets, extending its operations in Southern Germany.
• According to the latest EU short-term outlook, milk deliveries in France are expected to rise by 0.4% year-on-year in 2024 due to higher yields and stabilizing prices, which is anticipated to boost dairy product production, although global demand challenges may negatively impact exports.
• Raw milk prices in France have increased to 45.89 euro cents per kg, showing a rise compared to June 2023.
• Ysco operates state-of-the-art production facilities in Belgium and France, with an annual distribution capacity of up to 190 million litres of ice cream.
• Lactalis, a global dairy leader headquartered in France, has acquired General Mills' US yogurt business.

France's dairy market continues to evolve, adapting to both domestic and international challenges and opportunities, ensuring its position as a key player in the global dairy industry.

Modified: 2024/10/15

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