The dairy sector of the Balearic Islands recorded a commercial value exceeding €25 million in 2025, reinforcing its strategic importance for rural economies, local food production and the preservation of the archipelago’s agricultural landscape. The latest figures were reviewed during a meeting of the Dairy Sector Board held in Menorca, where representatives analysed the current situation of dairy farming and the main indicators related to production, prices and commercialisation.
According to the data presented during the meeting, the gross value of milk production sold to first purchasers reached more than €15.8 million. However, when direct sales and milk processed for direct commercialisation are also considered —particularly relevant in Menorca— the estimated total value of unprocessed milk production rises to at least €25.7 million.
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The Balearic dairy sector reached a commercial value of more than €25 million in 2025
The technical analysis presented to the sector indicates that total cow’s milk production in the Balearic Islands reached 54.98 million litres in 2025. This represents a decline of 3.7% compared with the previous year, equivalent to a reduction of around 2.1 million litres compared with 2024.
Production trends vary significantly across the islands. Mallorca experienced the most notable decrease, with output falling by 20.5%, from approximately 9.5 million litres in 2024 to just over 7.5 million litres in 2025. In contrast, Menorca maintained a stable level of production with more than 47.2 million litres, consolidating its position as the main dairy-producing territory within the archipelago.
Regarding the sector’s structure, the number of professional dairy farms reporting milk deliveries or direct sales stood at 124 across the islands, three fewer than the previous year. Of these farms, 109 are located in Menorca, 13 in Mallorca and 2 in Ibiza. The livestock population eligible for associated support slightly increased to 7,846 dairy cows older than 24 months.
Milk prices remain a key factor affecting the economic viability of dairy farms. In 2025, the average price paid to producers in the Balearic Islands was €0.468 per litre, still below the national average. Significant differences exist between islands: Menorca recorded an average annual price of €0.456 per litre, while Mallorca reached €0.517 per litre.
The report also highlights the growing role of direct sales, particularly in Menorca. In 2025, more than 20.2 million litres of milk were sold directly by producers, representing 42.9% of total production. A total of 56 farmers now sell milk through this channel, three more than the previous year, confirming the increasing relevance of this commercialisation model.
In addition to direct sales, dairy processing continues to play a central role in the sector’s economic activity. One of the most significant products is the Mahón-Menorca protected designation of origin cheese, which in 2024 reached a production volume of 3,523 tonnes and generated a commercial value of approximately €24.7 million.
During the meeting, authorities also provided an update on the implementation of the fourth edition of the Support Plan for the Viability, Modernisation, Promotion and Commercialisation of the Dairy Sector (PROVILAC IV). The latest call received 122 applications, with 105 projects approved for a total amount exceeding €1.34 million. To date, 87 files have already been paid, representing more than €1.15 million, while additional payments are currently in administrative processing.
Work has also begun on preparing the next edition of the programme, PROVILAC V, which will be developed in collaboration with industry stakeholders. The new plan will focus on strengthening farm viability, promoting modernization and supporting the digital transformation of dairy production in the Balearic Islands.