Milk production in Belgium

In Belgium, milk production is a leading agricultural activity. It is supported by ancestral know-how and represents an integral part of the country's economy. Belgian producers make it a point of honor to provide high-quality milk that meets rigorous safety and hygiene standards.

The main production regions

Milk production in Belgium is largely distributed between two main regions, notably Wallonia in the south of Belgium and Flanders in the north. The natural conditions in these regions contribute significantly to the country's dairy industry. Wallonia is a key region characterized by its ideal environment for cattle breeding. The provinces of Luxembourg, Liège and Namur are particularly renowned for their dairy production. Wallonia also benefits from numerous small family farms which contribute to the diversity and quality of dairy production.
As for Flanders, this other major milk production region is known as a crucial player in the Belgian dairy sector. The provinces of West and East Flanders, as well as Flemish Brabant, are important production areas. Flanders is distinguished by its large dairy farms and an often more industrial approach to production.

Types of milk produced in Belgium

Dairy production in Belgium is very varied and adapts to the tastes and needs of consumers. Belgians mainly produce cow's, goat's and sheep's milk.
Cow's milk is by far the most produced in the country. It forms the basis of the majority of dairy products such as drinking milk, cheeses, butter and yogurts. Belgian dairy farms are recognized for the quality of their cow's milk, often thanks to rigorous production methods that respect European standards. In 2023, around 4.5 billion liters of cow's milk were produced in Belgium.
Although goat's milk production is more limited, it is growing and occupies an important niche on the Belgian market. Goat's milk is used to make goat cheeses, highly valued for their distinctive taste and digestibility. In 2023, goat cheese production will reach around 10,100 tonnes. This type of milk is often produced on smaller, specialized farms.
Sheep's milk is produced more marginally in terms of production volume and is mainly used for the manufacture of artisanal cheeses and specific dairy products. Sheep's milk is rich in fat and protein, making it particularly suitable for the production of hard and semi-hard cheeses.
Besides liquid milk, Belgium is also famous for a wide range of dairy-derived products, including cheeses, butter, yogurts and creams. Innovations in the Belgian dairy sector have led to the creation of organic dairy products and value-added specialties.

The Belgian dairy sector and its cooperatives

The Belgian agricultural economy is heavily dependent on its dairy sector. This sector contributes significantly to the export of dairy products. To better manage the production and marketing of milk, cooperatives are proving to be key players that allow producers to pool resources.
The main Belgian cooperatives are made up of Micobel, Inex and Laiterie des Ardennes.
Micobel, the largest dairy cooperative in Belgium, represents around 40% of the milk produced. It transforms milk into cheese, butter, and other dairy products for the local and international market.
Inex, known for its production of fresh milk, cream and organic products, stands out for its commitment to sustainable and high-quality products.
Laiterie des Ardennes, a major cooperative, collects and processes milk with an emphasis on quality.

Like any other sector, the Belgian dairy sector also faces many challenges including price volatility and high production costs. The main milk production regions in Belgium combine their natural assets and agricultural expertise to make Belgium a producer of quality milk recognized in Europe and its dairy cooperatives play a fundamental role in the stability and development of the sector with solutions innovative and sustainable.