# Italian dairy and agro-food sector developments > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/italian-dairy-and-agro-food-sector-developments > Updated: 2026-09-23T07:26:02.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2. Lactalis Italia has initiated several programs to support the Italian dairy and agro-food sectors. The company launched a community engagement program in Milan focused on sustainability, social solidarity, and the promotion of ‘Made in Italy’ products. Concurrently, industry players like Compral Latte have emphasized integrated production models and scientific research to meet consumer demands within the Piedmont region. Building on these efforts, Lactalis hosted a summit in Milan to discuss the economic significance of Protected Designation of Origin (DOP) products. The summit addressed global competitiveness, rising production costs, and the threat of ‘Italian sounding’ imitations. During the event, it was noted that the DOP system supports approximately 200,000 companies and 900,000 jobs, with a production value of nearly 22 billion euros. To support local excellence, Lactalis announced plans to invest over 40 million euros in Italy. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-23: Lactalis hosts summit on the economic value of Italian DOP products Lactalis hosted a summit in Milan discussing the ‘DOP economy,’ highlighting that Italy's protected designation system supports 200,000 companies and generates nearly 22 billion euros in value. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/lactalis-hosts-summit-on-the-economic-value-of-italian-dop-products ### 2026-09-17: Italian dairy sector updates: Lactalis community program and Compral Latte growth Lactalis Italia is launching community initiatives in Milan, while Compral Latte highlights its integrated dairy supply chain and research focus in Piedmont. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/italian-dairy-sector-updates-lactalis-community-program-and-compral-latte-growth --- Cite as: Italian dairy and agro-food sector developments. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/italian-dairy-and-agro-food-sector-developments