Dairy Industry in Luxembourg

Introduction

Luxembourg, a small but influential country in Europe, has a vibrant dairy industry. The sector is characterized by high standards of production, a diverse range of dairy enterprises, and significant involvement in cooperative efforts such as Arla Foods, which is owned by farmers from several countries including Luxembourg.

Dairy Cattle and Milk Production

Luxembourg's dairy industry is supported by approximately 45,000 dairy cattle. The annual milk production volume from these herds stands at around 330 million liters. This high productivity is attributed to the efficient farming practices and favorable climate conditions in the region.

Milk Processing

The country processes a significant portion of its milk production internally. Annually, around 300 million liters of milk are processed into various dairy products. This processing includes a wide array of items from basic milk products to more value-added offerings.

Cheese Production

Cheese is a major product in Luxembourg's dairy industry. The country produces approximately 25,000 tons of cheese annually, catering to both domestic and international markets. The cheese varieties produced span from traditional local cheeses to popular international types.

Milk Powder and Whey Production

Luxembourg also engages in the production of milk powder and whey. Annually, the country produces about 15,000 tons of milk powder and 10,000 tons of whey. These products are significant both for their economic value and their role in food processing industries globally.

Dairy Plants and Farms

Key dairy plants in Luxembourg include:

• Auriga Cheese Plant
• Centrale Laitière de Luxembourg
• Dairy Processing Plant Mersch

Prominent dairy farms in the country are:

• Ferme de Steinfort
• Hansen Dairy Farm
• Barbelé Dairy Farm

Exports and Imports

Luxembourg is active in the export market, exporting around 150 million liters of milk and dairy products annually. Key export destinations include neighboring Germany, France, and Belgium, as well as other EU countries. On the import side, Luxembourg imports about 50 million liters of dairy products annually to meet varied consumer demands. These imports primarily come from other EU countries.

Significant Events

One notable event in Luxembourg's dairy sector is its involvement in Arla Foods, a multinational cooperative owned by more than 8,400 farmers from Denmark, Sweden, the UK, Germany, Belgium, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands. This cooperative structure strengthens the industry through shared resources and collaborative growth.

Conclusion

Luxembourg's dairy industry, though smaller in scale compared to other European countries, is distinguished by its quality production, efficient processing, and strong cooperative ties. The country's contribution to the global dairy market is significant, making it an important player in the sector. Luxembourgish farmers are part of the Arla cooperative.

Modified: 2025/02/05

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