Considerable state support will be provided to improve the quality of milk

Thus, the producers will be able to use the funds and improve the quality of their products within the framework of the livestock support program (4 billion for 2018) and the program for the development of farming and cooperation (1 billion UAH).

This was stated by Deputy Minister of Agrarian Policy and Food of Ukraine Olena Kovaleva during a meeting with milk producers, representatives of milk processing enterprises, profile associations and the public.

"On the challenges of the industry, this year's budget provides for a high amount of livestock development - 4 billion UAH. Attention will be focused on the construction and reconstruction of dairy farms, access to necessary equipment, improving the genetic potential of livestock. One of the tools will be affordable lending. At the same time, for small farms it is rational to go to improving the quality of milk through cooperation. After all, dairy cooperatives also fall under the program of state support through compensation for the cost of equipment and machinery purchased, "- says Olena Kovaleva.

At the same time, work continues on the Ministry's order on hygienic requirements for the production, processing and introduction of milk.

"Gradualism, state support and readiness of the industry are key principles for the revision of existing norms. After the transition period determined with market participants, the use of second grade milk will be allowed in the production of non-food products. Therefore, there will not be a ban on purchasing second class milk either from January or onwards, " emphasizes Olena Kovaleva.

Also during the meeting, the results of the dairy industry in 2017, the direction of development of the milk processing industry in the near future and the prospects for expanding the domestic and foreign markets were discussed.