Portugal's Dairy Industry Overview
The Portuguese dairy industry is a vital part of the country's agricultural landscape. While smaller in scale compared to some of its European counterparts, it stands out for its efficient operations and the production of high-quality dairy products.
Dairy Cattle and Milk Production
Portugal boasts a population of about 250,000 dairy cattle, predominantly located in the northern regions. These areas benefit from favorable climatic conditions and nutrient-rich pastures, which promote robust milk production. The country produces approximately 2 billion liters of milk annually, ensuring a stable supply that caters to both domestic needs and export markets.
Milk Processing and Cheese Production
Out of the total milk production, around 1.8 billion liters undergo processing each year. This reflects Portugal's advanced capabilities in transforming raw milk into a variety of dairy products. Annually, the country produces about 150,000 tons of cheese, including renowned varieties like Queijo de Azeitão and Queijo Serra da Estrela, celebrated for their unique flavors and textures.
Milk Powder and Whey Production
Portugal produces an estimated 30,000 tons of milk powder and whey every year. These products play a crucial role in both the domestic market and international trade, showcasing the versatility and global reach of the Portuguese dairy industry.
Key Players in the Dairy Market
Prominent companies in Portugal's dairy sector include Agros, Lactogal, Queijo São Jorge, and Longa Vida. Leading dairy farms such as Quinta da Aveleda, Herdade do Esporão, and Casa da Insua are significant contributors to the industry’s output and innovation.
Exports and Imports
Portugal exports approximately 200 million liters of dairy products annually, mainly to neighboring European countries. Conversely, it imports around 100 million liters of dairy products each year, maintaining a balanced domestic market.
Significant Events and Market Dynamics
The annual Lisbon Dairy Symposium is a key event for the Portuguese dairy sector, bringing together industry professionals to discuss emerging trends and challenges. The sector has seen stable raw milk prices since May, indicating market equilibrium and strong demand. Nestlé's €30 million investment to upgrade its Avanca factory cereal beverages line signals growth potential. Furthermore, Portugal's decision to retract from the Nutri-Score initiative reflects efforts to preserve its unique food cultural identity. The Queijo de Ovelha Amanteigado won top honors at the World Cheese Awards in Viseu, showcasing Portugal’s cheese production expertise. Meanwhile, a recent 10% reduction in milk prices has influenced market dynamics.
Lactogal Produtos Alimentares is emphasizing the industry's role in promoting gut health, highlighting the dynamic nature of Portugal's dairy industry. In January, the milk price was 45.80 ct/kg. Additionally, Lactalis is set to enhance its presence in the Portuguese cheese market through acquiring Queijos Tavares. Amul plans to expand its distribution to Lisbon, with its fresh milk products already available in major Spanish cities. Moreover, Portuguese company AGROCEPHALUS, LDA is a partner in a project in the Akmola Region, indicating international collaboration in the dairy sector.
Portugal's ambassador to Argentina underscores Villa María's role in international trade as part of the Mercosur-EU agreement framework, emphasizing European efforts to establish direct connections with South America’s key production hubs, particularly recognizing Villa María’s dairy industry in international trade.
Modified: 2026/02/25