Dutch Dairy Industry in 2023: A Leading Market Player

The Netherlands is widely recognized as a leader in the global dairy market, thanks to its robust infrastructure and a strong commitment to quality and innovation. This reputation significantly contributes to both the country's economy and global dairy standards.

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 dynamic nature of the Dutch dairy industry is highlighted by recent developments and responsiveness to global trends:

• The acquisition of Amalthea by Ausnutria Dairy Corp. underscores growth in the organic dairy segment.
• Raw milk prices increased to 47.75 euro cents per kg due to global market trends.
• Environmental policies aimed at reducing nitrogen emissions may affect livestock numbers and future milk production levels.
• A 13% decline in Dutch dairy exports to China year-on-year has been observed.
• Collaborations between Arla Foods and over 8,400 European farmers, including Dutch participants.
• The introduction of the Milk Sustainability Center's free version for selected dairy farmers enhances sustainability efforts.
• Termination of the EU derogation for manure spreading has led to a reduction in herd sizes for some farmers.
• Dutch cheese, like the Kaamps Estate Pizza Gouda Wedge, continues to gain international acclaim.
• The dairy industry mourns the loss of former Fonterra CEO Theo Spierings, who passed away in the Netherlands.
• The launch of plant-based fermented butter by Willicroft showcases innovation in dairy alternatives.
• A slight decrease in demand for high-protein whey from the Netherlands has been noted.
• New pilot participation by ten FrieslandCampina member farmers in the Netherlands.
• Concerns raised by Spanish farmer Edu H. Nualart over free trade agreements while residing in the Netherlands.
• China's expanded anti-subsidy investigation includes more Dutch programs.

Despite regulatory and market challenges, the Dutch dairy industry remains resilient and forward-thinking, continuing to lead in quality and innovation and maintaining a strong global presence. The Netherlands is one of the countries with members in the new Arla and DMK Group entity. FrieslandCampina is a Dutch dairy cooperative. Mark Voorbergen, a Netherlands-based dairy industry consultant, comments on the need for combining strengths in the current EU market situation. Significant market interest from multinational companies like Netherlands' Friesland Campina has been noted.

Modified: 2025/05/18

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