Israel’s dairy sector is at the center of a heated political and economic debate after Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich posted a satirical image of a milk carton branded with Chinese symbols on social media.

The meme underscored Smotrich’s push to increase dairy imports amid ongoing milk shortages and public frustration over high prices. The move reflects a broader struggle over the future of Israel’s tightly regulated dairy market.

In August, Smotrich approved a six-month waiver of the 40 percent customs duty on imported drinking milk, allowing foreign milk to enter the country at lower prices through February 2026. The measure responds to recurring shortages of regulated drinking milk, especially during peak demand periods such as the High Holidays.

“This is another milestone

See Full Page