Dutch Dairy Industry Overview

The Netherlands stands out as a dominant force in the global dairy market, renowned for its commitment to quality and cutting-edge innovation. This robust industry is a cornerstone of both the national economy and the global dairy landscape.

Key Data of the Dutch Dairy Market

Number of Dairy Cattle: Approximately 1.57 million

Milk Production Volume: Approximately 14.3 billion liters per year

Milk Processing Volume: Estimated at 13 billion liters per year

Cheese Production Volume: About 909,000 tonnes per year

Milk Powder and Whey Production Volume: Approximately 300,000 tonnes per year

Key Enterprises in the Dairy Market

Dairy Plants

FrieslandCampina
Royal A-ware
Vreugdenhil Dairy Foods
Farm Dairy
DOC Kaas

Dairy Farms

Melkveehouderij Arie van den Berg
Dairy Farm Van Leeuwen
Runderkamp Dairy
De Wijde Blik
Kaasboerderij Weenink

Export and Import of Dairy Products

Export Volume: Approximately 7.1 billion euros

Import Volume: Approximately 3.5 billion euros

Significant Events in the Dairy Market

The acquisition of Amalthea by Ausnutria Dairy Corp. underscores growth in the organic sector.
Raw milk prices rose to 47.75 euro cents per kg, influenced by global trends.
Environmental policies targeting nitrogen emissions may impact livestock and milk production.
A 13% drop in dairy exports to China has been recorded.
Collaborations with Arla Foods and over 8,400 European farmers, including Dutch, strengthen market positions.
The Milk Sustainability Center's free version introduction for selected farmers boosts sustainability.
The end of the EU derogation for manure spreading has led to reduced herd sizes for some farmers.
Dutch cheese, such as the Kaamps Estate Pizza Gouda Wedge, receives international praise.
The passing of former Fonterra CEO Theo Spierings in the Netherlands is mourned by the industry.
Willicroft's launch of plant-based fermented butter highlights innovation in alternatives.
A slight decrease in demand for high-protein whey has been noted.
FrieslandCampina member farmers in a new pilot project show continued innovation.
Concerns over free trade agreements raised by Spanish farmer Edu H. Nualart residing in the Netherlands.
China's expanded anti-subsidy investigations now include more Dutch programs.
The Netherlands remains resilient amid regulatory challenges, continuing to lead in quality and innovation.
FrieslandCampina collaborates with Bega Group in a bid for Fonterra's Australian operations.
Introduction of a new blend of dairy and plant milk products by Albert Heijn, merging traditional taste with environmental benefits.

In summary, despite facing regulatory and market challenges, the Dutch dairy industry remains a resilient, forward-thinking leader, maintaining a strong global presence and continuing to innovate in both traditional and alternative dairy products.

Modified: 2025/05/18