In issue Dairy Flash No. 5/2026, the European Dairy Association (EDA) summarised the outcomes of the Dairy Policy Conference 2026, which took place in Brussels and focused on the future of the EU dairy sector.

The event was attended by over 200 representatives from the industry, EU institutions, diplomatic missions and international experts.

EDA Conference: Focus on Competitiveness and Sustainability

The main theme of the event was the development strategy for the European dairy sector — ‘Competitive, Resilient & Sustainable’.

EDA President Albert de Groot emphasised the strategic role of the sector:

‘Food is not just a commodity. It is stability, dignity and, in today’s world, a factor for peace.’

According to him, the EU dairy sector is not merely an economic sector, but also a strategic asset that underpins Europe’s food security and global standing.

Young people and the future of dairy farming

CEJA Secretary-General Marion Picot emphasised the importance of supporting the next generation of farmers.

She called for:

  • strengthening coordination between the EU, Member States and regions;
  • the creation of a separate budget within the CAP to support young farmers;
  • ensuring generational renewal in agriculture.

Agricultural policy and the role of the dairy sector

During the first panel discussion, which focused on the transformation of agricultural policy, Pierre Bascou, Deputy Director-General of DG AGRI, emphasised the need to make the agricultural sector more attractive to young people.

“Food security is security,” he emphasised.

He also highlighted the strategic importance of the dairy sector for the EU’s self-sufficiency.

Damien Flynn, a representative of Ireland’s upcoming EU Presidency, outlined the priorities:

  • safety;
  • competitiveness;
  • consistency;
  • the development of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) and the EU budget (MFF).

Global trade and exports of dairy products

The second panel focused on global trade and export prospects.

Catherine Combette, a representative of DG AGRI, emphasised that:

“Dairy products are one of the main drivers of the EU’s agricultural exports, and Europe is the world leader in cheese exports.”

Discussions also took place regarding free trade agreements, in particular between the EU and Australia.

The outlook for the markets of South-East Asia

Representatives from Asian countries highlighted the region’s growing potential:

  • Thailand is regarded as a major hub for food processing and trade;
  • Indonesia emphasised the priority of food security and the need for investment;
  • The private sector, notably Royal FrieslandCampina, describes the region as dynamic and open to collaboration.

Conference summary

In his closing remarks, Albert de Groot emphasised:

“Thousands of families depend on dairy products, and our task is to make the sector attractive for investment and development.”

The conference concluded with the traditional EDA Annual Cheese Buffet, which showcased the finest European cheeses.

Source: European Dairy Association (EDA), Dairy Flash №5/2026