Luxlait is the best option going forwards, say the farmers, following the news that the EKABE dairy plans to halt milk purchases from March 2027. The farmers are in discussion with other dairies, expressing optimism for the future. The sentiment is shared by agriculture minister Martine Hansen.
Vic Wirtz, president of the milk farmers' cooperative Prolek, says the change could be a good thing. The 68 farmers want to collectively offer their business to a new dairy and they have different perspectives unfolding for the future.
"Luxlait told us they didn't have an immediate solution, but that they are willing to work with us to find a solution. That's a huge signal and we are very grateful."
Prolek is also in talks with other dairies, such as the Luxembourg-based Hochwald, to replace EKABE.
Speaking to the Chamber committee on Wednesday, CSV minister Martine Hansen says she is certain a solution will be found. "The Ministry may not be able to wade into these negotiations, clearly, as we can't interfere, but we can help."
As part of this support, the Ministry has ordered a study of the market to identify which milk products have the highest demand. But opposition politicians in the LSAP and Green parties said they expected a little more.
"I think additional efforts could be made to support, a little more, in terms of diversification. Supporting sales opportunities and development stages in Luxembourg,", said the Greens' Joëlle Welfring.
"It's important to think of the future and to consider more sustainable positions, so producers are not so dependent on multinationals," said Claire Delcourt of the LSAP.
The Prolek farmers are calling for added value for milk made in Luxembourg, for export purposes as well, Wirtz said.
"This would protect Luxembourgish milk production from the global milk price, making local high-quality products that can be appreciated all over the world."
Jeff Boonen, CSV MP and president of the agricultural parliamentary committee, said this was an avenue that could receive political support.
"There is an article in the Agricultural Act that allows, if processing industries in the field of agriculture, be it meat, milk or something else, want to invest, they can, for example, receive aid for investments. And the minister has just said that they are working on it, perhaps to get that out of the way and have the law ready to support Luxembourgish industries that process food."
A month ago, 68 farmers were surprised to learn that EKABE would no longer buy their milk from March next year. Now, the companies and the ministry are optimistic that a solution will be found.
