Italian dairy sector sees new funding and cooperation drive

Regional agriculture assessor Alessandro Beduschi met in Mantova with dairy cooperatives, farmers and representatives of the Grana Padano and Parmigiano Reggiano DOPs to discuss strategies for revitalising Lombardy’s dairy model. He highlighted the need to protect the region’s export‑oriented production while strengthening geographical‑indication labels and announced that the upcoming AREPO assembly on 15‑16 October will be attended by Agriculture Minister Francesco Lollobrigida.

Meanwhile, the Putignano‑based Caseificio Palazzo secured a €22 million loan from Banco BPM to fund its industrial expansion plan through 2033. The family‑owned cheese maker, which posted over €100 million in revenue and employs more than 350 staff, aims to boost its presence in over 30 countries with new production facilities and a focus on traditional Italian cheeses such as burrata, mozzarella and caciocavallo.