The EDA Annual Convention in Bratislava, the European Dairy Association (EDA) elected Koert Verkerk as its new President. As incoming President, Verkerk will work with EDA members and policymakers to strengthen the competitiveness, sustainability and resilience of the European dairy sector. In his first address, Verkerk called on Europe to recognise dairy as a strategic sector and safeguard the economic viability of food production.
Verkerk succeeds Albert de Groot, whom he thanked for his leadership and dedication. Verkerk is Corporate Director Public Affairs at FrieslandCampina and serves on the boards of the Dutch Dairy Association (NZO) and the Global Dairy Platform (GDP).
“I am honoured to serve as President of EDA at a time of major economic, geopolitical and sustainability challenges,” Verkerk said. “Food security is once again a strategic European issue, and a competitive dairy sector has an important role to play. However, Europe cannot strengthen its food security if it weakens the economic foundations of food production.”
Priorities for a competitive and resilient dairy sector
Verkerk set out three priorities for his presidency: the confidence to invest, innovation that creates value, and open and fair markets. “Europe’s local dairy roots are the foundation of its global strength. Farmers and dairy companies thrive when they are able to invest, innovate, and compete,” Verkerk said.
On sustainability, Verkerk called for policies that reward measurable progress and allow farmers and dairy companies to choose solutions that work in practice. “The transition will only succeed if farms remain viable, companies can invest and innovation delivers results in practice. Sustainability should strengthen Europe’s resilience and productivity rather than simply add another layer of cost,” he stressed.
The importance of open and fair markets
Verkerk also pointed to the importance of international trade. “Working in a farmer-owned cooperative has taught me something important: local commitment and international ambition are not opposites. Open and fair markets allow European dairy to create value that flows back to farms, factories and rural communities. Trade is not a threat to our local roots. It helps keep them alive.” EDA Secretary General Alexander Anton welcomed the appointment: “Koert Verkerk brings the strategic insight and international experience EDA needs. His leadership will strengthen our work to ensure that Europe’s ambitions are matched by a competitive dairy sector able to invest, innovate and succeed globally.”