Dairy Industry Overview of Ireland in 2024

Ireland has long been recognized for its premium dairy products, characterized by its lush green pastures and temperate climate, which provide an ideal environment for dairy farming. The year 2024 continues to demonstrate Ireland's significance in the global dairy sector through impressive production and export figures.

Dairy Cattle and Milk Production

In 2024, Ireland boasts approximately 1.5 million dairy cattle. This robust herd supports a substantial milk production volume of about 8.3 billion liters annually, underscoring Ireland's crucial role in meeting global dairy demand.

Milk Processing and Cheese Production

Ireland's advanced milk processing infrastructure handles around 7.9 billion liters annually. The country's cheese production is notably strong, with an output of approximately 250,000 metric tons per year. Additionally, Ireland produces around 300,000 metric tons of milk powder and whey annually, presenting a diverse portfolio of dairy products.

Key Dairy Enterprises

• Ornua: Known for the marketing and export of Irish dairy products worldwide.
• Kerry Dairy Ireland: Specializes in milk processing and cheese production.
• Glanbia Ireland: Focused on cheese and whey production.
• Dairygold: A leading cooperative involved in dairy farming and exports.

Notable Dairy Farms

• The Ballygrad Farm
• The Ballynoe Farm
• The Aherlow Farm
• The Rathmore Farm

Export and Import of Dairy Products

Ireland exports about 1.4 billion liters of milk equivalent annually, supplying key markets across the EU, US, and Asia. On the import side, the country brings in around 100 million liters of milk equivalent per year, reflecting a strong export-oriented strategy.

Recent Developments and Market Events

• Cesar França appointed as Global Foods Division Managing Director at Ornua.
• Stabilization of raw milk prices following a mid-2023 surge.
• Kerry Dairy Ireland set its June milk price at 42.5 cents per liter.
• Teagasc reported a 69% reduction in dairy farmer incomes in 2023.
• Environmental regulations impacting herd sizes to mitigate nitrogen emissions.
• RDJ LLP tasked with addressing milk pricing issues with Kerry Creameries Ltd.
• Diverse expansion includes Mike Finegan’s exploration in goat milking with Boyne Valley Farmhouse Cheese.
• Kerry Dairy Ireland announced a milk payment increase to 53.5 cents per liter in January 2024.

Challenges and Opportunities

Ireland's dairy industry faces pricing dynamics and regulatory changes while exploring opportunities for global expansion through innovation. As part of sustainability efforts, Greenhills Farm collaborates with Ørsted on a 250 MW solar initiative. Rising production costs have led to increased consumer prices.

Upcoming Events

• In 2025, Ireland will host the 3rd Annual National Dairy Awards.
• Kerrygold and the broader dairy sector are contending with new U.S. tariffs.
• The FSAI has recalled specific batches of Dairy Farm Vanilla Ice Cream and Tony’s Chocolonely chocolate for safety reasons.
• The Dairy Beef Welfare Scheme re-opens for new applicants with a €25 million allocation focusing on animal health and beef integration.
• Carbery announced a reduction in its base milk price by 1c/L for March 2025.

Conclusion

Ireland's dairy industry is set for robust growth and continues to significantly contribute to the EU market supply, with a strong international market presence. Innovation and sustainability efforts remain pivotal as the industry addresses challenges and leverages new opportunities.

Modified: 2025/04/22

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