# European dairy industry structural and security discussions > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/european-dairy-industry-structural-and-security-discussions > Updated: 2026-09-22T03:55:00.000Z. Sources: 7. Developments: 2. Industry discussions regarding the European dairy sector have focused on resilience, food security, and structural shifts toward value-added production. At the Forum Milch NRW, participants addressed the need to strengthen the dairy sector’s resilience to ensure food security during crises. Experts highlighted the importance of regional structures and family-run farms in maintaining supply chains. Concerns were also raised regarding hybrid threats, such as cyberattacks, sabotage, and disinformation, which could jeopardize the industry. Further discussions at the International Dairy Community Forum emphasized a transition from quantity-based production to higher value-added through specialized and branded products. In Germany, the sector is undergoing significant structural changes; while milk production remains stable, the number of dairy farms has decreased by 49% over the last 15 years. This has led to larger average herd sizes and increased efficiency per cow. However, market volatility continues to complicate long-term agricultural planning and capital investments. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-22: Dairy industry experts discuss shift toward value-added production Experts at the International Dairy Community Forum highlight a shift from production scale to value-added products as the dairy industry faces structural changes and investment challenges. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/dairy-industry-experts-discuss-shift-toward-value-added-production ### 2026-09-21: Dairy industry leaders discuss food security at Forum Milch NRW Industry leaders at the Forum Milch NRW discussed strengthening the dairy sector's resilience against supply chain disruptions and hybrid threats like cyberattacks to ensure food security. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/dairy-industry-leaders-discuss-food-security-at-forum-milch-nrw --- Cite as: European dairy industry structural and security discussions. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/european-dairy-industry-structural-and-security-discussions