India is the world’s largest producer of milk, and China, the world’s fourth-largest producer of cow’s milk by country, according to the IDF World Dairy Situation 2018 report.
Dilip Rath, chairman of the National Dairy Development Board of India and secretary of IDF India National Committee, said, “The efforts put in by all the stake holders – the small and marginal farmers and techno-professionals – have contributed in transforming a milk deficit country into a world leader in milk production. Hosting the World Dairy Summit 2022 in New Delhi, India, will be a proud moment and a befitting tribute to dairy farmers.”
Kungang Song, chair of the IDF China National Committee, said, “China has developed into an important international dairy market, serving as a major engine of growth in the global dairy sector. We have a lot of experience to share at the World Dairy Summit 2023 in Beijing.”
‘Sustainable development’
IDF director general Caroline Emond said there is much to be learned from market leaders such as India and China.
“India produced around 83m metric tonnes of cow’s milk last year while it faces increasing demand by local consumers in line with greater health consciousness and a rise in purchasing power,” Emond said.
“China, which produced about 35m metric tonnes of cow’s milk, remains reliant on imports, particularly for cheese. These huge markets in Asia provide interesting perspectives on supply management and the use of technology to increase production.
“The exchange of ideas among different IDF member countries on a global platform at the World Dairy Summit will promote greater dialogue on issues and trends that will draw on the expertise and experience of each country which will contribute to the sustainable development of the dairy sector.”
The 2018 event was held in Daejeon, South Korea, while in 2019 it moves to Istanbul, Turkey. Chile will play host in 2020, in Puerto Varas. In 2011, Cape Town, South Africa, will be the venue.