The European market for powdered, condensed, and evaporated milk continues to expand moderately, reaching 4.3 million tonnes in 2024 with a total value of $10.1 billion, according to the latest IndexBox report. The market is forecast to reach 4.5 million tonnes and $12.8 billion by 2035, marking a gradual but consistent rise in both volume and value.
Market Overview
Germany, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom remain Europe’s largest consumers, collectively accounting for over 40% of total demand, while Germany, the Netherlands, and France dominate production. Per capita consumption is highest in the Netherlands (39 kg) and Belarus (31 kg), underscoring regional contrasts in dairy consumption habits.
Powdered milk continues to lead the market in both trade and value share, representing $5.8 billion in 2024, compared to $4.7 billion for evaporated and condensed milk. The product’s versatility and longer shelf life sustain its dominant position across the continent.
Production and Trade
European milk production stood at 5.4 million tonnes in 2024, led by Germany, the Netherlands, and France, which together contribute nearly half of total output. Ireland recorded the fastest growth among producers with a +12.4% CAGR over the last decade, highlighting its rising export capacity.
Intra-European trade remains significant. The Netherlands is both a major importer and exporter, reflecting its central role in dairy logistics and processing. Exports across Europe reached 2.9 million tonnes valued at $8.1 billion in 2024, with powdered milk accounting for three-quarters of the total export value.
Price and Market Dynamics
The average import price in Europe declined slightly to $2,393 per tonne in 2024, while export prices held steady at around $2,802 per tonne. Price variation remains notable across regions, with the UK recording the highest import price at $3,321 per tonne.
Despite a mild contraction in trade volumes in 2024, analysts expect a gradual rebound driven by stable domestic consumption and increasing demand from the food processing and nutrition industries.
Outlook to 2035
While overall volume growth is projected to slow with a modest +0.3% CAGR, the value CAGR of +2.2% signals stronger pricing trends and higher-value dairy applications. Europe’s skimmed and powdered milk markets will likely continue their upward path, shaped by evolving dietary preferences, sustainability goals, and robust intra-regional trade.
