Italy's Dairy Industry in 2023
Italy remains a significant force in the global dairy industry, blending its rich heritage with modern innovations. In 2023, the country sustained its reputation for producing high-quality dairy products, supported by approximately 1.6 million dairy cattle. This led to a milk production volume of about 12 million tonnes, with the processing volume reaching approximately 11 million tonnes, showcasing Italy's efficient dairy infrastructure.
Key Statistics
The dairy sector is robust, with cheese production reaching approximately 1.3 million tonnes. Milk powder and whey production volumes are about 1 million tonnes each, highlighting the country's diverse dairy product capabilities.
Major Market Players
The market is dominated by major enterprises such as Granarolo S.p.A., Parmalat, Galbani, Inalpi, and Sterilgarda Alimenti S.p.A. Significant dairy farms include Azienda Agricola Zordan, Fattoria Latte Sano, Caseificio Palazzo, Allevamenti Grazia, and Soc. Agr. Marcuzzi.
Trade Dynamics
In 2023, Italy exported approximately 500,000 tonnes of dairy products while importing about 700,000 tonnes. Italy's renowned cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano and Gorgonzola drive its active trade behavior. The country was among the top ice cream suppliers to China, with exports valued at $682,000 by the end of July. Italy exported around 4,500 tonnes of cheese to China, contributing significantly to China's cheese import growth.
Significant Events and Challenges
The dairy industry experienced a stable economic environment due to stable raw milk pricing. Challenges included international scrutiny over subsidies and security concerns such as the theft of Parmigiano Reggiano. There was a growing demand for curd snacks and an expansion into the Pakistani livestock and dairy sectors. Debates over the Nutri-Score system highlighted Italy's commitment to food standards, while production pressures from H5N1 avian influenza outbreaks posed ongoing challenges.
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, Italy's dairy industry is poised for growth with plans to introduce Amul products to the market and enhance trade relations with India. Developments like Greatview's new plant in Perugia and Galdi's updated brand identity indicate a strategic focus on expansion and innovation. Research from the University of Padova on microplastics in cheese reflects Italy's dedication to maintaining product quality and safety.
Regional and International Influence
Italy is one of the countries where Super Foods FZCO has an office, focusing on the development of fruit-based solutions. It is the main destination for Spain's sheep milk exports, maintaining a favorable trade balance for Spain. Italy leads global cheese imports, reflecting its prominent position in the cheese market.
Climate and Environmental Challenges
Italy's burrata production faces threats from extreme heat, reducing milk output and affecting cheese quality. Rising temperatures significantly impact Italy's dairy sector, particularly in Puglia, a key region for burrata cheese production.
Government and Industry Initiatives
A state aid package is directed towards the dairy sector in South Tyrol, specifically allocated to the Centro Latte Bressanone Società Agricola Cooperativa. Agricow Srl Italia will present animal welfare solutions at Fieragricola in Verona. An Italian financial institution has begun accepting Parmigiano Reggiano cheese as collateral for loans, with its PDO status ensuring stringent production standards. Parmigiano Reggiano is exclusively produced in the Italian provinces of Parma, Reggio Emilia, Mantua, Bologna, and Modena, exporting around 84,000 tons annually.
Research and Innovation
The University of Milano is involved in research supported by various funding bodies. The research focuses on using milk whey in cultivated meat production, with support from the European Union's NextGenerationEU initiative.
Consumer Trends
Italy is part of the 27 European countries involved in the SHARE study, monitoring the health status and aging of individuals over 50. OraSì, an Italian brand, emphasizes sustainability in its production of hazelnut milk using Italian-grown hazelnuts. The country reported growth across all plant-based categories, with sales reaching €669 million, a 4.5% rise. Plant-based milk dominated, accounting for over half of the market.
Artisan Gelato Promotion
Italian artisan gelato promotion is also a focus, with SIGEP China promoting Italian artisan gelato in Shanghai as part of an international strategy. The spot price of milk in Italy has shown an upward trajectory, contrasting with the broader trend of declining prices in other dairy segments. The country's role in providing raw materials for cheese production is significant, with Parmigiano Reggiano shavings produced in the Reggio Emilia Apennines, and Spinoro shavings made from 100% Italian cow’s milk sourced from farms in the Po Valley in Northern Italy. The Italian Parmigiano Reggiano industry faces climate-related challenges, including rising temperatures and droughts in northern Italy impacting dairy operations and cheese maturation processes.
Italy is noted for its use of Cagliata cheese in the production of mozzarella and burrata. The ecological Cagliata cheese produced by Celega using Galician milk is particularly noted for its use in the production of mozzarella and burrata in Italy.
Weightpack is an Italian equipment manufacturer involved in a partnership with Autopack, contributing its expertise in filling systems designed for accuracy and hygiene, suitable for a range of products.
National pavilions and individual companies from Italy are expected to participate in upcoming exhibitions, showcasing their products and innovations.
Modified: 2026/08/17