The global dairy industry is influenced by rapid changes in consumer preferences, and Romania is no exception. According to FAO data, global demand for dairy products increased by 2.3% in 2024, driven mainly by emerging markets in Asia and Africa.

At the same time, in Western Europe, liquid milk consumption decreased by 8% over the past five years, while cheese and yogurt recorded growth. Romania followed this trend, with INS data showing a 5% decline in fresh milk consumption between 2020 and 2024, but a 12% increase in cheese and 9% in yogurt.

This shift has direct implications for processors, who must adapt production to new demands. In addition, the emergence of plant-based alternatives, which grew globally by 15% in 2024, puts pressure on the dairy sector. The European Dairy Association report highlights that processors must invest in diversification and innovation in order to remain competitive. For Romania, aligning with global trends requires not only the modernization of production lines, but also the adaptation of commercial strategies to a consumer increasingly attentive to health, sustainability, and traceability.

(Photo: Freepik)