Milk production has been among the most celebrated success stories in Asia. This success story has been written by millions of small farmers scattered across the region. The region now produces close to 40 percent of the global milk production compared to less than 20 percent just three decades ago.

But dairy is more than just about producing and selling milk. Dairy is about supporting poor peoples’ livelihoods. Dairy is about nutrition and cognitive development of children. Dairy is about empowerment of women and Dairy is about unleashing the potential for rural economic growth.

The projected growing consumer demand for milk and dairy development in the region provide an excellent opportunity to boost the local dairy sector to strengthen food security, alleviate poverty alleviation and contribute to overall social equity.

While the sector faces challenges it is also rich in social and technical innovations. Sharing experiences and lessons around these innovations can be a powerful source of change in support of sustainability agenda. This requires joining hands. And that is what defines the spirit of Dairy Asia.

Linkages established since the launch of Dairy Asia are already spurring partnerships and collaborations.