economy
February 15, 2026
Dairy Crisis in the Balkans: Farmers Seek Protection Amidst Import Floods
Once universally consumed and considered the healthiest drink, especially homemade, milk is now often discouraged or replaced. Meanwhile, farmers have been facing numerous long-standing problems.
TL;DR
- Farmers in the Balkans are experiencing a long-standing crisis due to low milk prices, high consumer prices, and import competition.
- Protests, including dumping milk and blocking roads, have occurred in Serbia and Montenegro, with farmers demanding protective measures against imports.
- EU tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles have led to retaliatory tariffs on European dairy products, contributing to surpluses that are often exported to the Balkan region.
- Farmers cite unfair pricing, with some products from the EU and regional countries (Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia) being significantly cheaper in Montenegro than in their countries of origin.
- Despite challenges, Croatia is investing in its dairy sector, reporting a slight increase in milk production.
- The decline in cow populations and milk production is linked to falling consumption, reduced populations, and lower living standards in the region.
- Agroeconomists emphasize that maintaining cattle populations is crucial for village survival and food independence.
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