IDF: Science and International Cooperation Are Essential to the Future of the Global Dairy Sector
The International Dairy Federation (IDF) participated in recent dairy sector events held in Hohhot, China. The meetings brought together policymakers, industry leaders, researchers and international organizations to discuss the future of the global dairy industry.
Director General at International Dairy Federation
The sector is facing a range of common challenges, including climate change, resource constraints, supply chain volatility and changing consumer expectations. Against this background, international dialogue and cooperation are becoming increasingly important. These issues remained at the centre of discussions throughout the week.
The conference was held under the theme “Technology-driven, Win-win Collaboration: For a Sustainable Global Dairy Ecosystem.” The discussions focused on the role of innovation, knowledge exchange and cooperation between different parts of the dairy value chain. These instruments can help the industry respond to global challenges, strengthen its resilience and support sustainable development.
During her visit, IDF Director General Laurence Rycken met with representatives of the Chinese dairy sector, international partners and other industry stakeholders. She emphasized the importance of science-based decision-making, innovation and knowledge sharing in developing more sustainable and resilient dairy systems.
The discussions highlighted a central message: sustainable progress in the dairy industry depends on science-based solutions, international cooperation and the exchange of knowledge throughout the value chain.
Laurence Rycken also exchanged views with Thanawat Tiensin, Assistant Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and Director of FAO’s Animal Production and Health Division. Their discussion focused on the role of international cooperation in advancing sustainable food systems.
IDF also acknowledged the contribution of the Chinese National Committee and its member organization, the China Dairy Industry Association. Among those involved in strengthening cooperation between China’s dairy sector and the international dairy community are Professor Ling Guo, Secretary of the Chinese National Committee; Dr Yun Zhanyou, IDF Board Member; Ms Liu, Chairwoman of the China Dairy Industry Association; and Ignatius Szeto, a member of IDF’s Standing Committee on Dairy Nutrition and Health.
As an international platform for science-based dairy expertise, IDF supports knowledge exchange, dialogue and cooperation across the dairy value chain. Continued collaboration between national dairy organizations, scientists, businesses and international institutions will be essential to strengthening the sector’s resilience and supporting its sustainable development.
