This is a press release from the IFCN & Eucolait Dairy Outlook Workshop 2025 in Hamburg, Germany
The IFCN Eucolait Dairy Outlook Workshop 2025, themed “European Dairy at Risk,” brought together leading experts, industry representatives, and stakeholders to address the most pressing challenges and opportunities in the dairy sector. For the fourth consecutive year, IFCN and Eucolait have co-hosted this essential industry event, now recognized as a key platform for insights into market trends, regulatory shifts, and strategic innovations. With over 70 participants, the workshop was completely sold out, highlighting the critical importance of the topics discussed.
The Competitiveness of the European Dairy Sector at Stake
The European dairy industry, historically a global leader, is now under immense pressure due to multiple challenges. Declining self-sufficiency in milk fat has led to supply gaps and increased price volatility. Additionally, rising production costs, stringent environmental regulations, and a growing labor shortage are putting profitability at risk. Meanwhile, geopolitical uncertainties—including trade barriers and the ongoing war in Ukraine—are further disrupting supply chains, creating an unstable market landscape.
Changing Consumer Preferences Drive Industry Transformation
Consumer preferences are evolving rapidly. Traditional liquid milk consumption continues to decline, while demand surges for high-quality, organic, and protein-rich dairy products. Sustainability and ethical production are increasingly influencing purchasing decisions, making strategic positioning in these areas crucial for long-term competitive advantages.
Innovation and Strategic Investments: The Path to Success
To navigate these challenges, the dairy industry is leveraging digitalization and technological innovations. Artificial intelligence and automation are boosting production efficiency, while investments in sustainability initiatives—such as methane reduction and circular economy models—are essential to complying with environmental regulations while maintaining economic viability.
Key Takeaways and Strategic Actions
The workshop concluded with actionable insights to ensure the resilience and success of the European dairy sector:
- Implementing risk management strategies to mitigate price volatility and supply shortages.
- Diversifying export markets and investing in high-value dairy products.
- Advancing sustainable innovations through targeted investments in low-emission technologies.
- Strengthening collaboration across the entire value chain to align with evolving EU regulations.
Conclusion: A Future Built on Collaboration and Innovation
The IFCN Eucolait Dairy Outlook Workshop 2025 underscored the profound transformation occurring in the European dairy sector. Innovation, sustainability, and strong collaboration among industry leaders, policymakers, and researchers will be crucial in shaping a resilient and competitive future. The high participation and dynamic discussions reflect a proactive industry ready to tackle challenges head-on and embrace new opportunities.
About
Eucolait has represented the European dairy trading community since 1959, offering policy analysis, market intelligence, and strategic advice. They advocate for their members at European and international levels while providing a platform for industry discussions and events.
IFCN is a global dairy research and consultancy network based in Kiel, Germany. Founded in 2000, it now brings together more than 100 researchers and provides expertise in the form of data services to more than 130 companies in the global dairy supply chain.
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- Dairy demand worldwide and trade developments
- Milk production and processing profile
- Monthly milk production changes
- Costs of milk production
- World milk price