By Jamie Martin
The U.S. dairy industry continues to show remarkable growth. Over $10 billion is being invested in new dairy processing facilities between 2023 and 2026. These investments reflect growing confidence in the sector and benefit dairy farmers by increasing capacity and efficiency.
Processing facilities across states like Washington and Georgia are being upgraded to meet higher demand for dairy products both in the U.S. and overseas. These improvements help deliver nutritious dairy to more consumers and support the economic strength of the entire dairy sector.
Consumer habits are shifting in favor of dairy. Fluid milk sales rose last year for the first time in over a decade, and dairy products are becoming more popular, especially among younger consumers. Cottage cheese has even become a favored snack for Generation Z. Dairy demand today mirrors levels last seen in the 1950s.
U.S. dairy exports also offer good news. In the first five months of 2025, exports reached $3.873 billion, marking a 13% increase over the same time in 2024. Products like high-protein whey and cheese saw strong gains in value and volume.
Even as global trade faces challenges, the industry continues to build strong relationships worldwide. New trade agreements with countries such as Indonesia are opening fresh opportunities for producers.
Still, there are hurdles ahead, including immigration issues affecting farm labor and the risks of trade policy shifts. But with a strong foundation and continued innovation through dairy checkoff programs, the U.S. dairy industry is on a positive path.
Thanks to industry leaders and hardworking farmers, dairy’s future remains solid and bright.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-vwalakte
Categories: National