Overseas Remains A Big Opportunity For U.S. Dairy

With 96% of the world’s population living outside the U.S., there is literally a world of opportunity for U.S. dairy to be enjoyed around the globe.  Becky Nyman, a California dairy farmer, chair of the U.S. Dairy Export Council, and Dairy Management, Inc. board member said those overseas markets are critical for American producers.

"Exports impact all farmers in the U.S., regardless of whether a drop of their milk leaves our borders," Nyman said.  "Simply put, strong export sales boost overall demand for dairy products, and that higher demand helps drive up milk prices for farmers all across the country. There is literally a world of opportunity for U.S. dairy products.”

Dairy is a standard part of many American diets, from cheese on pizzas to a glass of milk at the dinner table.  Around the world, though, it is less common, which is why the checkoff and the U.S. Dairy Export Council are working to drive demand.

“When I think about long-term, future opportunities, I think about where people might consume more," she noted.  "In the U.S., average dairy consumption is more than 600 pounds per person annually, and by comparison, in China, the average is roughly 60 pounds. In Indonesia, which is the world's fourth most populous country, it's under 50 pounds per person. So, that means Americans consume six times more dairy than consumers in these countries. So just imagine the impact on our industry if consumption in these markets were to rise even very modestly.”

Dairy Checkoff Looks To Drive International Demand

Driving dairy demand around the world takes a different approach and strategy depending on the market to ensure the products being offered are desirable in the local cuisine.

"Because every country and culture is different, there's no one-size-fits all strategy. And the approach reflects that. But when I think about just one example, our relationship with Mexico rises to the top," Nyman said.  "So, Checkoff and USDEC built a long-standing partnership with a delegation of Mexican dairy leaders, and we work together every year throughout the year to strengthen the industry in both countries. In the last 15 years or so, dairy consumption in Mexico has increased by about 20 percent. During that same time, the U.S. has maintained its share of that market at over 20 percent. So, when they grow, we grow. That's a wonderful success story to tell that benefits producers in both of our countries.”

Learn more about the dairy checkoff by visiting the organization's Website .

If you have a story idea for the PNW Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail glenn.vaagen@townsquaremedia.com