Insights to Gain

Dairy Farming in Finland

Finland produces about 2.16 million tonnes of raw milk per year, accounting for around 1.5% of the EU-27 total. Although a relatively small producer, the country has a 96% self-sufficiency rate. Around 3,800 dairy farms remain, averaging 66 cows and being widely dispersed across a vast territory — making logistics such as milk collection and veterinary services challenging. Smaller farms are declining, while larger farms continue to expand. Finnish EDF farms average 210 cows and produce 11,500 kg ECM per cow, mainly in intensive indoor systems.
A defining feature is grass-based feeding within arable crop rotations; permanent grassland plays almost no role. Forage production is demanding due to very short growing seasons, requiring strong coordination and sufficient machinery capacity. In southern Finland, maize under film is emerging as a new option.
Finnish dairy farms place strong emphasis on milk quality, sustainability, and animal health, supported by high biosecurity standards, low antibiotic use, and preventive herd management. Very high public payments compensate for structural disadvantages and help maintain competitiveness — even in the far north.
Overall, Finnish dairy farming combines grass-based feeding systems, strong biosecurity, and adaptation to northern conditions, producing high-quality milk in a resilient and responsible way.