Italy: A Pillar of the Global Dairy Market

Italy is acknowledged worldwide for its sophisticated dairy industry, which combines rich traditions and modern innovation. In 2023, it continues to command a significant stature on the international stage, thanks to its high-quality dairy production.

Key Statistics for 2023

• Number of Dairy Cattle: Approximately 1.6 million heads
• Milk Production Volume: Approximately 12 million tonnes
• Milk Processing Volume: Approximately 11 million tonnes
• Cheese Production Volume: Approximately 1.3 million tonnes
• Milk Powder and Whey Production Volume: Approximately 1 million tonnes

Key Enterprises in the Dairy Market

Dairy Plants

• Granarolo S.p.A.
• Parmalat
• Galbani
• Inalpi
• Sterilgarda Alimenti S.p.A.

Dairy Farms

• Azienda Agricola Zordan
• Fattoria Latte Sano
• Caseificio Palazzo
• Allevamenti Grazia
• Soc. Agr. Marcuzzi

Trade Dynamics in 2023

• Exports of Dairy Products: Approximately 500,000 tonnes
• Imports of Dairy Products: Approximately 700,000 tonnes

Significant Events in Italy's Dairy Industry

This year stands out for the stability in raw milk pricing, which has remained unchanged since May, contributing to a stable economic environment for farmers and producers. Italy continues to emphasize its traditional dairy farming heritage by promoting PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano and Gorgonzola.

Internationally, Italy is facing scrutiny with an investigation into subsidies offered by several EU states, including Italy, which underscores regulatory challenges. The demand for curd snacks is on the rise and projected to grow in 2024.

Another significant development is Italy's investment interest in Pakistan's livestock and dairy sectors, which highlights its expanding global market footprint. The increasing incidents like the theft of Parmigiano Reggiano are areas that need safeguarding, while ongoing debates over the Nutri-Score demonstrate Italy's commitment to defending its food reputation.

Italy's participation in international dairy competitions and China's extended anti-subsidy probe highlights its integration into global trade dynamics. Production pressures attributed to the H5N1 avian influenza outbreaks are an ongoing issue, though southern European nations including Italy remain less impacted due to their dietary preferences for olive oil over butter.

Finally, Italy's culinary influence is underscored as it emerges as the leading European supplier of fresh cheeses to China, while the historical role of pizza - first crafted in Naples without cheese - marks Italy's enduring contribution to global gastronomy.

Concerns raised by MEPs and national governments, particularly from Ireland, France, and Italy, regarding the potential strategic and economic impact on European producers.

Italy saw a remarkable increase in cheese exports to China.

Modified: 2025/04/13

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