ARLINGTON, VA. – The US Dairy Export Council (USDEC) and National Milk Producers Federation (NMPF) recently announced the organizations signed an agreement with the Italian Dairy Association (Assolatte) that will involve collaborating to promote the nutritional benefits of dairy and supporting “dairy-friendly” policies in international forums.

The agreement for the alliance includes objectives, such as “ensuring the accurate and exclusive labeling of dairy terms for milk and dairy products,” and advocating for international standards and guidelines.

“Our two countries each have a proud tradition of producing world-class, sustainable dairy products,” said Jim Mulhern, president and chief executive officer at NMPF. “That shared passion will fuel this partnership as we work to proactively advance positive, sound international dairy policies.”

Krysta Harden, president and CEO of USDEC, said dairy producers in Italy and the US have “incredible opportunities to grow and thrive,” while simultaneously taking on similar challenges.

“This agreement is an important step in growing our voice as we continue to call for fair, science-based policies that support sustainable growth for dairy producers and manufacturers around the world,” Harden said.

Assolatte chairman Paolo Zanetti said: "This is an ambitious and far-reaching agreement between two giants of the global dairy industry, Italy and the United States – a cooperation that we hope will help to remove potential obstacles to the production and marketing of milk and dairy products.”

Per terms of the agreement, the partnership between the groups will last through 2025.

USDEC and NMPF agreed to similar alliances last year with Sociedad Rural Argentina and the Chilean Federacion Nacional de Productores de Leche.