Dairy Industry in Greece
Greece is celebrated globally for its rich dairy traditions and products, with a robust industry that plays a crucial role in the Mediterranean region. The nation is notable for its high-quality cheese and yogurt, which are major components of its dairy exports.
Dairy Cattle and Milk Production
As of recent data, Greece hosts approximately 150,000 dairy cattle. These cattle produce around 680 million liters of milk annually, which is essential for domestic consumption as well as for fulfilling international demand.
Milk Processing and Production Volumes
In Greece, the milk processing volume is estimated at 620 million liters per year. Greek dairy processing is highly efficient, converting raw milk into a variety of products. Cheese production is particularly significant, with a total of about 120,000 tons produced annually, and Feta cheese being a standout product. The production of milk powder stands at approximately 20,000 tons, while whey production is about 15,000 tons each year.
Key Enterprises in the Dairy Market
- FAGE International: Known for its Greek yogurt, FAGE is a leading company in the Greek dairy sector.
- Dodoni: Specializes in traditional Greek cheese, maintaining high standards of quality.
- MEVGAL: Among the largest dairy producers in Greece, offering an extensive range of dairy products.
Major Dairy Farms
- Agroktima Konstantinidi: A significant contributor to milk production in Greece.
- Thrace Milk: Known for employing sustainable dairy farming practices.
Exports and Imports
Greece exports about 200 million liters of milk annually, with a strong focus on high-quality cheese and yogurt for international markets. To complement domestic needs, particularly for specialized dairy products, Greece imports approximately 50 million liters of milk per year.
Significant Events in the Dairy Industry
This year, the Greek dairy industry experienced an increase in raw milk prices in June 2023 due to supply chain adjustments and rising production costs. Moreover, Greece hosted the International Dairy Symposium, encouraging global collaboration and innovation in dairy practices. Furthermore, new export markets for cream cheese emerged, including Kazakhstan and Poland. However, a recent outbreak of peste des petits ruminants (PPR), or 'goat plague,' in Thessaly threatens the nation's dairy industry, particularly impacting feta cheese production.
Conclusion
The Greek dairy industry remains a crucial and dynamic part of the national economy, known for its quality and traditional products. Despite recent challenges, it continues to hold a significant position in both domestic and international markets.
Modified: 2025/05/18