Overview of Croatia's Dairy Industry

Croatia holds a notable position in the dairy industry within the region. With a complex network of dairy cattle, goats, farms, and processing facilities, the country ensures a steady supply of various dairy products, catering to both domestic and international markets.

Dairy Cattle and Milk Production

Croatia has approximately 160,000 dairy cattle, contributing to an annual milk production volume of about 600 million liters. The country also supports around 80,000 dairy goats, which supplement the milk production, primarily used for cheese and other specialty dairy products.

Milk Processing and Cheese Production

The volume of milk processed annually in Croatia reaches approximately 550 million liters. This processed milk is turned into a variety of dairy products, including cheese, butter, and milk powder. Cheese production alone accounts for about 37,000 tons per year, marking a significant output from the processed milk.

Milk Powder and Whey Production

In addition to cheese, Croatia produces around 18,000 tons of milk powder and whey annually. These products are pivotal in various food industries and serve as essential exports to other countries.

Key Dairy Enterprises and Farms

Croatia hosts several key enterprises in the dairy market:

• Dukat d.d.: The largest dairy company in Croatia, primarily involved in milk processing and the production of cheese, yogurt, and other dairy products.
• Vindija d.d.: Another significant player, Vindija specializes in a broad spectrum of dairy products, including milk, cheese, and ready-to-drink beverages.
• Meggle Hrvatska d.d.: Known for its quality dairy products including milk, butter, and various cheeses.

There are also numerous dairy farms, such as:

• Farma Magarčevo
• Opg Vrbanek
• Poljoprivredna Zadruga

Import and Export Activities

In terms of exports, Croatia ships approximately 25,000 tons of dairy products annually. This include cheese, whey, and milk powder to various countries within the European Union and beyond. On the import side, Croatia imports around 30,000 tons of dairy products per year to meet domestic demand and supplement local production.

Recent Events in the Dairy Industry

There have been significant developments in the Croatian dairy market, including:

• Increased subsidies from EU member states, with notable contributions from Italy and Finland, aimed at supporting the dairy farmers and enhancing production efficiency.
• Adoption of advanced technologies in milk processing and quality control to align with EU standards.
• Expansion plans by major dairy companies like Dukat d.d. and Vindija d.d. to increase production capacity and explore new markets.

These events underscore the dynamism and growth potential of Croatia's dairy industry, positioning it strongly within the regional and global markets.

Modified: 2025/02/05

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