For the 20th time, the International Farm Comparison Network (IFCN) brought together the key players in the global dairy value chain to discuss the challenges and opportunities of forward-looking technologies. This year’s conference participants confirmed that sector integration and a focus on farmers and their animals will be key to making the dairy sector technologically fit for the future.
The hybrid event took place with more than 300 participants (live and online) from 4-6 September in Netanya, Israel. On the economic side, the dairy industry today is driven by high input prices, low availability of raw materials and steady demand due to the growing world population.
Combined with megatrends such as farm consolidation, new policy regulations and lower profit margins, farmers’ profitability is under threat. In addition, social and sustainability aspects, as well as the cows themselves and their welfare, are increasingly coming into focus. Farmers around the world need to adapt to the new conditions – technology can help close gaps and increase farm profitability.
Technology means many things, but essential to any progress is data, which can serve as a powerful tool. Data helps analyse, measure and monitor, highlighting gaps and progress and enabling farmers to make decisions based on it.
However, it is important for the industry to bear in mind that technology must always be designed from the customer’s point of view. Only when farmers can see the relevance of the innovation, see its benefits for the animals and their own needs, and receive well-organised support, will they consider a change in strategy. For more visit ifcndairy.org
The event was supported by Allflex / MSD, Nedap, Phibro Animal Health, Mileutis, Intellync, Lely and Chr. Hansen.
