Guy and Markauskas both commented on similarities between the nations.
“In both countries the dairy industry and agriculture in general play a huge role,” Markauskas said.
During the meeting the ministers discussed trends in the agricultural sector, Brexit, the implications of elections in the major EU countries, bilateral cooperation, and partnership practices.
Opportunities to work together
They noted recent global dairy prices have had an impact on dairy farmers in both countries, emphasizing the importance of adding value to dairy products.
"There are plenty of opportunities for collaboration between our respective dairy sectors, such as that already occurring between Fonterra and Rokiškio Sūris as well as collaboration prospects with Lithuanian dairy cooperative Pienas LT,” the ministers said.
"There is more potential for our dairy and other sectors to collaborate. We have complimentary production seasons and different market advantages in different regions. Our roles in global value chains will benefit farmers in both countries,” Guy said.
Markauskas also pointed to potential opportunities to collaborate in the dairy sector, especially in the context of expanding global demand.
Lithuanian dairy
Lithuania has more than a dozen dairy manufacturing companies, with Rokiškio sūris, Pieno žvaigždės, Pienas LT and Vilkyškių pieninė among the largest.
Rokiškio sūris AB group, headquartered in Rokiškis, was established in 1964 and includes three production sites in the towns of Rokiškis, Utena and Ukmergė.
The company produces a variety of cheeses, lactose, skim milk powder, sweet cream butter, buttermilk powder and dried whey protein concentrate.
“Pienas LT”, which was founded in 2008, is the largest cooperative for dairy production and processing in Lithuania.
The cooperative, based in Kauno, has more than 200 members.