EU milk production is expected to decline by around 5% between 2025 and 2030, prompting Irish processors to enter what they are describing as a "period of managed transition". For Ireland, as a major global dairy exporter, maintaining competitiveness will be critical. Also speaking at the meeting, agriculture minister Martin Heydon highlighted the importance of the CAP in the context of food security. ICOS Dairy Committee chair Eamonn McEnteggart concluded that the Irish dairy industry is entering a period of "managed transition". While global dairy demand remains strong, particularly in growth markets outside Europe, future success will depend on efficiency, environmental credibility and strategic collaboration across the value chain, he explained.

Source: Irish Examiner March 05, 2026 03:53 UTC