Dutch-Ukrainian Cooperation Strengthens Dairy Sector and Animal Welfare Standards in Ukraine
Representatives of the Association of Milk Producers of Ukraine and agricultural universities discussed the modernization of curricula with a focus on animal welfare and the preparation of the dairy sector for EU standards.
A recent stakeholder meeting marked another milestone in the Netherlands’ support for Ukraine’s agriculture. Within the framework of the project Baseline Study on Animal Welfare in Ukraine’s Dairy Industry (PST25UA05), representatives of the Association of Milk Producers of Ukraine met with academic institutions – Polissia National University, Bila Tserkva National Agrarian University, and Sumy National Agrarian University – to discuss the future of the Ukrainian dairy sector and its path toward European Union integration.
The central theme of the meeting was the preparation of Ukraine’s dairy sector for the new EU animal welfare standards, which will come into force on 1 January 2026. For Ukraine, compliance with these standards is essential for harmonization with EU legislation, as outlined in the EU-Ukraine Association Agreement. For the Netherlands, the initiative reflects a broader international agenda: supporting sustainable agricultural development, responsible food production, and the creation of future-oriented business opportunities.
Dutch priorities in action
The Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Kyiv has identified the dairy industry as one of its priority areas. By leveraging Dutch expertise in sustainable livestock management and EU-compliant animal welfare practices, the project contributes directly to both Ukraine’s reform agenda and the Netherlands’ international objectives.
The project is implemented with the support of the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) under the Private Sector Development (PSD) Toolkit. The PSD Toolkit empowers Dutch embassies in partner countries to create favorable conditions for local private sector development, while also strengthening the position of Dutch expertise abroad.
Educational reform as the backbone of change
A key outcome of the meeting was the recognition that long-term progress depends on strengthening education. The project specifically focuses on updating and modernizing university curricula and vocational training programs in the field of animal welfare. By integrating EU animal welfare requirements and best practices into existing veterinary and agricultural education, Ukrainian universities will ensure that future specialists are fully prepared to meet the standards of modern dairy farming.
University representatives confirmed their readiness to adapt curricula, introduce new modules on animal welfare, and participate in Train-the-Trainer (ToT) programs with Dutch partners. These reforms are important for equipping students, farmers, and dairy staff with practical skills that improve animal welfare practices.
The Association of Milk Producers emphasized that collaboration with Dutch partners offers unique added value, especially in creating practice-oriented training modules, introducing modern technologies, and establishing knowledge networks that will support long-term development of dairy industry in Ukraine.
Strategic relevance for both countries
The development of Ukraine’s dairy sector carries wider importance. For Ukraine, it is a cornerstone of food security, rural employment, and export potential. For the Netherlands, it presents an opportunity to position Dutch knowledge, technology, and innovation at the heart of Ukraine’s agricultural sector.
By supporting Ukraine in harmonizing its animal welfare standards with those of the EU, the Netherlands is not only contributing to the country’s integration into the European community but also ensuring that the future of Ukrainian dairy farming is aligned with principles of sustainability, high-quality production, and responsible animal welfare practices.
Shared vision for the future
The stakeholder meeting reaffirmed the common commitment of Ukrainian and Dutch partners to build a dairy sector that is resilient, competitive, and future-oriented. Through close cooperation between industry associations, universities, and international partners, Ukraine’s dairy industry is taking concrete steps to meet EU animal welfare standards, deliver high-quality products, and contribute to sustainable rural development.