Researchers from the Institute of Economics and Rural Development at the Lithuanian Centre for Social Sciences are launching a research project funded by the Research Council of Lithuania entitled “Assessment of the Position of Lithuanian Milk Producers in the Supply Chain and Opportunities to Strengthen It Through Collaboration Under Conditions of Uncertainty.” This project represents another important step towards ensuring that research-based solutions contribute to building a stronger, more competitive, and more resilient Lithuanian agricultural sector, better equipped to meet future challenges.
The Lithuanian dairy sector faces persistent market fluctuations, growing economic uncertainty, and challenges related to milk producers’ bargaining power and a fairer distribution of the value created along the supply chain. In this context, it is particularly important to seek scientifically grounded solutions that would help strengthen milk producers’ economic resilience, competitiveness, and long-term business prospects.
The aim of the project is to assess the position of Lithuanian milk producers in the supply chain and identify opportunities to strengthen it through collaboration under conditions of economic uncertainty. The research will examine the position of milk producers and the factors shaping it, opportunities for cooperation, and measures that could contribute to more favourable economic relationships within the dairy supply chain.
The research findings will provide valuable insights for agricultural policymakers, milk producers, and their organisations, help identify effective cooperation models, and contribute to the development of a more economically resilient and sustainable Lithuanian dairy sector. The project will also produce research-based recommendations for relevant stakeholders and institutions.
The project is led by Dr Tomas Baležentis, Principal Researcher at the Institute of Economics and Rural Development, Lithuanian Centre for Social Sciences. The research is being carried out by a team of researchers from the same institute: Dr Erika Ribašauskienė, Dr Rasa Melnikienė, Dr Dalia Štreimikienė, Dr Vida Dabkienė, and Dr Ovidija Eičaitė.
Project funding information:
The project is funded by the Research Council of Lithuania from the state budget of the Republic of Lithuania under the Targeted Research Programme (12th Call).
Project Funding Agreement No. S-REP-26-12.
Project implementation period: 3 November 2026 – 31 October 2027.
Further information:
Dr Tomas Baležentis, email: tomas.balezentis@lcss.lt
Dr Erika Ribašauskienė, email: erika.ribasauskiene@lcss.lt