Portugal: A Leading Dairy Market in Southern Europe

The dairy industry in Portugal is a crucial component of its agricultural sector, marked by a well-developed market producing high-quality products. Although relatively small in scale compared to some European counterparts, the Portuguese dairy industry boasts efficiency and significant output.

Number of Dairy Cattle

Portugal is home to approximately 250,000 dairy cattle, with farming mainly concentrated in the northern regions, benefiting from suitable climatic conditions and nutrient-rich pastures.

Milk Production Volume

Annually, Portugal produces around 2 billion liters of milk. This stable production volume caters to both local consumption and export demands, underlining the country's capability in the dairy domain.

Milk Processing Volume

From the total milk output, about 1.8 billion liters are processed every year, reflecting the country's proficient dairy processing infrastructure that efficiently converts raw milk into various consumable products.

Cheese Production Volume

With an annual production of approximately 150,000 tons, Portuguese cheese, such as Queijo de Azeitão and Queijo Serra da Estrela, are renowned for their distinct flavors and textures.

Milk Powder and Whey Production

Portugal's production of milk powder and whey is estimated at 30,000 tons per year, important for both domestic utilization and international markets.

Key Enterprises in the Dairy Market

Prominent dairy enterprises in Portugal include Agros, Lactogal, Queijo São Jorge, and Longa Vida. Important dairy farms include Quinta da Aveleda, Herdade do Esporão, and Casa da Insua, which contribute significantly to the dairy industry.

Exports and Imports of Dairy Products

Portugal exports around 200 million liters of dairy products annually, predominantly to European neighbors. Meanwhile, imports are approximately 100 million liters per year, maintaining a balanced domestic dairy market.

Significant Events in the Dairy Industry

The annual Lisbon Dairy Symposium is a notable event, gathering industry professionals to deliberate on emerging trends and challenges. A current noteworthy development is the stability in raw milk prices, unchanged from May, indicating market equilibrium and consistent demand. Furthermore, Nestlé's €30 million investment to enhance its cereal beverages production line at the Avanca factory emphasizes the sector's potential. Portugal's decision to retract its commitment to the Nutri-Score initiative highlights the nation's focus on preserving its unique food cultural identity. Overall, Portugal's dairy industry significantly impacts the national economy, providing superior dairy products for domestic and international markets. The top prize was awarded to Queijo de Ovelha Amanteigado at the World Cheese Awards held in Viseu, Portugal. Moreover, milk prices have recently declined by 10%.

Modified: 2025/02/05

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