A round-up of the week’s key events in the dairy industry in Ukraine and worldwide 👇
🇪🇺 EDA Dairy Flash 4/2026
The European Dairy Association has focused on competitiveness, sustainability and regulatory changes within the sector. Particular attention has been paid to trade, Ukraine’s integration into the EU and new approaches to sustainable development.
🇳🇱 The Sustainability Impact Award will take place in the Netherlands
On 3 June 2026, an international event focusing on sustainable development in the livestock sector will take place in Utrecht, bringing together industry representatives to share experiences and forge partnerships.
🐮 The mass culling of cows sparked protests by farmers
In a number of regions across russia, mass culling of livestock has been reported due to quarantine restrictions. Farmers are protesting, citing a lack of transparent procedures and low levels of compensation.
🇳🇿 Fonterra CEO Steps Down
Fonterra CEO Miles Hurrell has announced his resignation after 25 years with the company. He has led the cooperative since 2018 and has overseen a strategic transformation of the business.
🇵🇱 The collapse of milk prices in Poland
In the first quarter of 2026, milk prices fell to the level seen in autumn 2023 — around €43.86 per 100 kg. An oversupply and export restrictions are putting pressure on the market.
🇩🇪 German milk: the price floor has been breached
Despite a further fall in prices, there are signs of stabilisation. At the same time, the sector is facing an oversupply of milk and calls for a reduction in production.
🥛 The healthiest types of milk
Cow’s milk and plant-based milk have different nutritional profiles. The choice depends on your protein and calcium requirements, any allergies you may have, and your lifestyle.
🧈 How to store butter properly
Experts recommend keeping the oil in the fridge and not leaving it at room temperature for more than four hours to prevent it from going off.
📊 Results of the GDT auction on 17 March (Event 400)
At the Global Dairy Trade auction (17 March), the average price stood at $4,330/t. SMP (+5.2%) and AMF (+6.4%) saw the biggest increases, whilst WMP fell by 4.0%.
🇬🇧 Milk prices are putting pressure on British farmers
Due to an oversupply, purchase prices have fallen by up to 40%. Some farms are operating at a loss, which threatens to lead to a reduction in production.
🌍 The new reality of the dairy market: between high demand for protein and expensive delivery
The global market is shaped by demand for protein and rising costs. Rising prices for energy and fertilisers are driving up production costs.
🇨🇳 Demand for protein is growing in China
The Chinese and APAC markets are growing rapidly thanks to interest in functional foods. High-protein dairy products are becoming a key driver of this growth.
