Yili Group Showcases Innovative Dairy Solutions at Global Dairy Congress 2026

From June 17 to 18, 2026, Barcelona, Spain became the focal point for the dairy industry with the 19th Global Dairy Congress, themed "Fit for Purpose." This prestigious event gathered leaders from across the dairy sector to discuss emerging trends, challenges, and innovations. Yili Group, a prominent player in the dairy market, made waves with its cutting-edge products and insights into the future of nutrition.

The congress kicked off with a captivating keynote address by Dr. Ignatius Szeto, Vice President of Yili Group. He emphasized the importance of creating opportunities for high-quality functional products, highlighting how advancements in dairy processing technology have paved the way for innovations tailored to meet specific demographic and health needs. Dr. Szeto's presentation underscored the company's commitment to nutritional solutions that cater to the growing demand for health-conscious products.

One of the key discussions during the event was centered around precision nutrition. Dr. Szeto pointed out that precision nutrition represents a significant growth driver for the dairy sector, enabling the development of functional products with bespoke attributes addressing individual health requirements. This philosophy resonates in Yili's diverse range of functional dairy offerings designed to enhance overall well-being.

Among the highlights of the congress was the announcement of the World Dairy Innovation Awards 2026, where Yili received multiple accolades for its innovative products. The company earned two Winner titles, ten Finalist nominations, and seven Commended recognitions. Noteworthy was the award for the "Changqing Lemon Oat Popping Beads Probiotic Yogurt" as the best yogurt, showcasing Yili's ability to blend flavor with health benefits. Additionally, their "Hulunbuir Strain Milk Skin Yogurt" was lauded as the best artisanal product, reflecting Yili's commitment to quality and craftsmanship.

In his presentation regarding goat milk, Dr. Szeto offered insights into the unique digestive and nutritional characteristics of goat milk, demonstrating Yili's innovative approaches to family nutrition. This includes acknowledging goat milk's role in meeting specific dietary needs, particularly for families seeking health-oriented dairy alternatives.

Throughout the congress, Yili's presence was notable not only on stage but also at their exhibition stand, where they showcased a broad product portfolio addressing specialized health needs, such as blood sugar control, bone health, and cardiovascular wellness. These product lines received significant attention from industry experts and attendees, validating Yili's focus on consumer-oriented health solutions.

Yili has consistently adopted a consumer-focused strategy, leveraging precise insights into market demands to build a comprehensive portfolio that caters to diverse health needs across all demographics. Their latest financial report indicates that in 2025, the share of new products in Yili's overall revenue reached 16.4%, underlining its role as a key driver of the company’s high-quality growth.

This year marks Yili's seventh consecutive year of recognition at the Global Dairy Congress, a testament to the company's unwavering focus on innovation and excellence within the dairy sector. Richard Hall, chairman of the congress, praised Yili for its remarkable capacity to deliver award-winning innovations year after year despite evolving challenges in the industry. He acknowledged the Chinese dairy sector's emerging leadership in global innovation, attributing Yili's success to its persistent technological advancements and in-depth understanding of consumer needs.

In conclusion, Yili Group's participation in the 19th Global Dairy Congress not only reinforced its position as a leader in the dairy sector but also showcased its dedication to innovation that aligns with health and wellness trends. As the dairy industry continues to evolve, Yili stands committed to developing solutions that enrich consumers' lives and address the challenges of modern nutrition.