From 19 to 25 May 2025, Walloon experts from the CRA-W and Elévéo (Awé) took part in a scientific and technical mission to Quebec, organised with the support of Wallonia-Brussels International (WBI). The aim of this initiative was to strengthen ties between the regions' dairy industries and pave the way for ambitious collaborative ventures.
Hosted by Université Laval and Lactanet, participants were treated to a packed programme of laboratory visits, project presentations and discussions on major themes such as milk quality, robotic milking, animal welfare, biosecurity and artificial intelligence in the field of animal health.
In December 2025, the collaboration continued in Wallonia, when a delegation from Quebec was welcomed to the region. The visit highlighted the diversity and richness of our infrastructure: Awé, ARSIA, Comité du lait, the CRA-W, Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, Terre-de-Fromages Cheese Dairy as well as a typical farm from our region and a biomethanisation unit.
One of the highlights was a visit to the European Parliament, accompanied by MEP Benoît Cassart, who provided valuable insight into the inner workings and challenges of European politics.
Discussions showcased innovative projects such as Holicow, WalleSmart, Bromedir and Blanc Bleu Vert, while identifying promising scientific synergies.
As the meetings progressed, discussions took on a strategic dimension, focusing on standardising analytical tools, enhancing spectral data, and developing predictive models for animal health.
Beyond the technical aspects, the week was marked by a strong human dynamic, affirming the delegations' mutual trust and a desire to work together on joint projects.
These two missions illustrate the strength of transatlantic cooperation, combining expertise, innovation and shared ambition.
Missions subsidised by WBI, Wallonia-Brussels/Quebec bilateral cooperation.
