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.
Modified: 2025/04/10