Mozzarella Production in Italy Halted Due to Truckers' Strike

In southern Italy, the production of mozzarella has come to a standstill after striking truck drivers blocked the highways. According to local officials cited by the Associated Press, cheese factories did not receive 1 million liters of milk.

In the past 24 hours alone, cheesemakers reported losses of €3 million. The disruptions have affected not only dairy products: the ongoing week-long strike has also complicated the delivery of other goods to stores.

Protesters are demonstrating against the government's inaction regarding the rising diesel fuel prices. While the strike has disrupted supply chains, mozzarella producers are reportedly the hardest hit.

The production of this cheese requires coordinated efforts across the entire supply chain. Water buffaloes need to be milked regardless of whether the cheese factories are operational. According to production regulations, the milk must be processed into cheese within 60 hours after milking.

During an emergency meeting on October 23, the Italian government decided to offer new tax benefits to truck drivers and farmers who have suffered losses due to the increased cost of diesel fuel. These measures target the two groups involved in the supply chain.

Associated Press notes that it remains unclear whether these new benefits will be enough to end the strike. The published reports do not provide a timeline for the strike's resolution or information about the resumption of milk deliveries to the factories.