The Dutch Dairy Industry in 2023

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

• 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.

Modified: 2025/04/30

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