LISBON: Portugal more than doubled its milk production between 1980 and 2015, from 970,000 tonnes in 1980 to 2 million tonnes in 2015, according to figures published by the National Institute of Statistics (INE). The highest level of self-sufficiency was achieved in 2015 (112.5 percent), INE said in a report on milk production and consumption in 2015. Although production increased last year, consumption also decreased to 71 kg per inhabitant/per year, the lowest level since 1985 and 11.7 kg below the average for the 36-year period.
INE also noted that there had been a “deep restructuring” of the sector, which in 25 years (1989-2013) increased the average number of milk cows per production unit eight-fold (from four to 34) and encouraged specialisation to a point where the sector is able to compete with European partners,” said the INE report.
From 1985 onwards Portugal also became self-sufficient in butter, but coverage of yoghurt and cheese needs were still below consumption levels (47.0 percent for yoghurt and 69.6 percent for cheese). This led to Portugal posting a trade deficit of €198 million for milk products in 2015, INE said.
