One of the strategic directions for the sustainable development of the dairy sector is vertical integration between primary production and local processing. In Romania, where a significant share of milk produced is not collected through industrial channels, this approach can bring important economic and logistical benefits.

Integration means either that farms invest in their own processing units, or that processors establish long-term partnerships with groups of local producers, based on solid contractual agreements. The result is better quality control, enhanced traceability, and greater adaptability to market demands.

Successful examples include cooperatives that have built small dairy plants where milk is processed daily and sold under their own brand. This approach adds significant value, especially in market segments that appreciate local sourcing and traditional processing methods.

The challenges lie in the initial investments, the need for qualified human resources, and compliance with sanitary regulations, which can sometimes be difficult for small facilities to meet. Nevertheless, there are significant opportunities through national and European funding programs that support local processing and short supply chains.

In the long term, integrating production with processing can lead to a more resilient system, with more stable incomes for farmers and a more diversified offering for consumers. It is a model that can support the revitalization of Romania’s rural areas while aligning economic goals with those of sustainable development.

(Photo: Freepik)