From Wageningen to Inner Mongolia: A Decade of Innovation in China’s Dairy Sector

Dr. Gerrit Smit, a veteran of the food science industry from the Netherlands, recently stepped down from his leadership role at the Yili Innovation Center Europe, a position he held since its inception in 2014. This center, located in Wageningen, played a pivotal role in bridging European expertise and Chinese market ambitions in the dairy sector.

Smit's efforts led to pioneering achievements, including the development of advanced infant formulas and cheese products tailored for Chinese consumers. His leadership saw the center evolve into a hub of collaboration, producing breakthroughs in dairy science, and integrating European craftsmanship with local tastes.

Over a decade, Smit witnessed Yili's climb from the world’s top 10 dairy companies to the top five, attributing this to their commitment to innovation, demonstrated even during global challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

His experiences in China, from modern cityscapes to traditional landscapes in Inner Mongolia, enriched his personal and professional life, making this chapter one of growth and cross-cultural collaboration.