A series of key meetings involving European dairy industries, government bodies and the European Commission will be held in the next month to address the Russian import ban on dairy products.

It is too early at present to assess the full impact of the ban. However, EU Member States are concerned about its indirect impact and the need to find alternative homes for dairy products destined for Russia.

At a meeting held by the Commission this week, Member States agreed to provide weekly price updates to the Commission and to monitor closely any further developments. Another management meeting will be held by the Commission next week, followed by a Special Committee meeting on agriculture on September 2nd and a Special Agricultural Council meeting on September 5th.

Dr Judith Bryans, Chief Executive of Dairy UK, said: "There is no doubt that the ban will have both direct and indirect effects on the European dairy industry before the market reacts and delivers some equilibrium. Dairy UK will continue to monitor the potential impact and work with Defra, the European Dairy Association and other industry stakeholders to assess and help mitigate any consequences on the sector".