Dutch exports increase

The total value of dairy exports from the Netherlands in 2013 rose to nearly €7.9 billion, an increase of 12% versus 2012, according to the Dutch Central Bureau of Statistics. The increase in export value is largely due to higher prices. The export price of milk was nearly 9% higher than in 2012, and the price of milk powder rose by nearly 25% as a result of higher demand.

The total export value of milk that goes to five countries ­– Germany, Belgium, France, UK and Russia – is over €4.6 billion. Nearly 60% of total Netherlands exports heads to these five nations.

Other major dairy buyers are Italy, Hong Kong, Poland and China. China has increased its share, with dairy imports from the Netherlands amounting to €94 million in 2013, up from 2010, when exports were worth €33.4 million.