From October 20–23, the Chilean capital Santiago is hosting one of the world’s most important dairy industry events – the IDF World Dairy Summit 2025. This year, the event has gathered over 800 participants from 44 countries – from milk producers and processors to international organizations and industry leaders.
This marks the first time in the 123-year history of the International Dairy Federation (IDF) that the summit is being held in South America. The event is organized by the IDF, in collaboration with the Chilean Ministry of Agriculture, the national dairy consortium “Consorcio Lechero,” and the Federation of Milk Producers “Fedeleche.”
Theme: “Nurturing a Sustainable World”
IDF President Gilles Froment emphasized that the choice of Chile as the host country is no coincidence: “Chile’s dairy sector is undergoing a period of transformation – it is innovative, growing, and deeply committed to sustainability. It stands as an inspiring example for Latin America and the entire world.”
One of the central highlights of the summit is the Paris Dairy Sustainability Declaration, a joint initiative of the IDF and the FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations). The declaration aims to make the global dairy sector more sustainable — economically, socially, and environmentally.
FAO Deputy Director-General Thanawat Tiensin highlighted the importance of dairy in people’s lives: “Milk supports children’s growth, family health, and community resilience. Yet today’s challenges – from rising demand to climate change – call for innovation. Only through joint action can we ensure a better future.”
Global trends and innovation
The event features the presentation of the 2025 World Dairy Situation Report, which reviews global production, consumption, and trade trends.
The World Leaders Forum brought together prominent industry representatives, including Antonia Wanner, Head of Sustainability at Nestlé; Claudio Rodríguez Huaco, CEO of Grupo Gloria; and Andrew Hoggard, New Zealand’s Minister for Biosecurity and Food Safety.
Chilean Minister of Agriculture Ignacia Fernández noted that climate change compels the sector to seek new solutions: “We have a strong dairy industry, but to remain competitive, we must invest in innovation, research, and technology – this is key to securing the future of both the sector and our planet.”
Lithuania – an active part of the international dairy community
Dr. Edvardas Gedgaudas, representing the Lithuanian Chamber of Agriculture (LCA), is participating in thematic discussions, presenting Lithuania’s experience in the dairy sector, and strengthening cooperation with international partners.
“Participation in such a high-level forum is crucial not only for Lithuania’s dairy sector but for the entire agricultural community,” said Dr. Gedgaudas.
“Here, we don’t just discuss global trends – we shape the direction of the future. It’s vital for Lithuania to be heard, to showcase our progress, and to learn from others. Sustainability, innovation, and partnership are the paths we must follow to enhance our sector’s competitiveness.”
The IDF World Dairy Summit 2025 is not only a platform for discussion but also a forum for shaping tangible global solutions for the future of dairy.
Lithuania’s participation once again confirms the Lithuanian Chamber of Agriculture’s active engagement in international initiatives and its commitment to building a sustainable, competitive, and innovative national dairy sector.