Tag: Dairy industry trends

According to the OECD-FAO Agricultural Outlook, per capita demand for liquid milk is declining in regions like Europe and North America, a trend influenced by evolving consumer preferences and the rise of plant-based alternatives. However, the global picture is more complex and nuanced, with consumption patterns varying significantly by region.

According to market analysis firm Pristine Market Insights, the A2 milk market is expected to experience significant growth globally over the next decade, with rapid expansion projected in Europe and North America. This rapid growth confirms that A2 milk is international, moving beyond its origins to become a recognized dairy product worldwide.

According to a 2025 OECD-FAO report, world milk production is growing, but production in major export regions like the EU is expected to decline slightly. This divergence, coupled with other market forces, is a key factor behind recent skimmed milk shortages.

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), India has consistently ranked as the world's largest milk producer for several years. The country’s dairy sector is a massive contributor to its economy and a primary source of livelihood for millions of farmers, solidifying its position as the number one country in milk production.

As of 2019, more than 80 percent of the world's population consumed dairy products, though specific liquid milk consumption varies widely. While this sounds high, the actual percentage of people who drink milk regularly is influenced by several factors, including significant regional variations and the prevalence of lactose intolerance, which affects an estimated 68% of the global population.

In 2023, China's per capita annual dairy consumption reached 41.3 kilograms, representing a significant increase over the past decade. While this still falls well below the global average, the country has undergone a dramatic dietary shift, making the question of 'Do they drink a lot of milk in China?' far more complex than a simple yes or no. Once a food largely absent from traditional diets, milk and dairy products have exploded in popularity due to economic growth, Western influence, and official government campaigns.