AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION
Dairy
Denmark has been an agricultural society for
centuries and dairy production has played a critical
role in shaping Denmark’s agricultural development.
Denmark can almost be considered an ideal dairy
country, given its moderate climate and fertile
soil, which provide optimal conditions for
cattle farming. Furthermore, Danish farms
are among the largest and most modern in
Europe. In sum, the value of the Danish dairy
exports totals EUR 1.8 billion annually.
Pork
Pork constitutes one of the main export categories
for Danish agriculture and Denmark is known
around the world for its production and pro-
cessing of pork meat. Denmark is one of the
world’s largest pork exporters and Danish
pork producers are among the world leaders
in quality and in maintaining animal welfare.
The pork sector has been increasing its output,
as productivity has continually improved over the
years. The food safety of Danish pork is exceptionally
high.
Field Crops and Horticultural Production
The main crops produced in Denmark are
cereals, namely barley, wheat, rye and oat.
In Denmark, cereal products are mainly
utilized for animal fodder (75%), while the
rest is consumed as food products. Other major
crops are potatoes, rapeseeds, and sugar from
sugar beets grown in the southern parts of the country.
Poultry and Eggs
The poultry and egg sector is another major
area for Danish agriculture and Denmark has a
highly efficient poultry industry characterized by very
high veterinarian standards. Broilers and hens are
well protected against infections, minimizing
the need for antibiotics. This allows poultry
producers to deliver meat that is safe and
with very low levels of diseases.
Mink
Denmark is the world’s largest producer of mink
skins and home to the world’s largest fur auction
house Kopenhagen Fur, which has a 60% market
share of the global fur auction market. Danish
breeders are known for producing fur of a
very high quality. Danish mink skin, therefore,
tends to be the most expensive skins in the
world. The fur industry has been growing in
recent years due to large investments that
have taken place in the sector.
Fishery & Aquaculture
Denmark has a long tradition of fishery. Today, 95%
of Danish fish are exported, making Denmark
the largest fish and shellfish exporters in
the EU. Denmark’s vast water resources
also enables it to be a leading country
within aquaculture. The Danish aquaculture
industry is going through rapid development,
with new species being introduced and organic
aquaculture gaining a stronger and stronger
foothold.
19