Production and trade of milk and dairy products in Serbia

Abstract

Milk plays a significant role in human nutrition, and more than 6 billion people worldwide consume milk and dairy products. In 2019, total milk production in Serbia reached 1,597 million litres, cow’s milk accounting for almost 95%. Out of the total amount of cow’s milk produced in 2021, 58.2% was purchased. The share of milk delivered to dairies increased by over 50% in the previous decade. The results in the dairy sector are directly influenced by dairy cattle farming in Serbia, which has been experiencing a decrease, but there has been a consistent increase in milk yield over the past few years. Production of dairy products in Serbia recorded a decrease during the last ten years, except for dry products (cream powder, whole and partially-skimmed milk powder), which recorded an increase. Trade in dairy products is very volatile, as dairy trade flows can be affected by the overall economic situation in a country, fluctuations in supply and demand, changing exchange rates and political measures. The largest dairy product trade in Serbia is conducted in milk and cream, followed by cheese, and then milk and cream powder.