The functioning of the milk market after the abolition of quotas – selected legal aspects

The aim of the article is an attempt to answer the question whether the legal instruments ensure the stabilization of milk producers and the development of the milk market. It discusses the entities operating on the milk market, including milk producers, dairy cooperatives, groups and organizations of milk producers. Then, it presents the issue of penalties for the overproduction of milk. Next, the discussion focuses on helping milk producers who, in the quota year 2014/2015,marketed not less than 15 000 kg of milk; on financial resources for the reduction of milk production and those indicated in Regulation No 2016/1613. Additionally, it presents the issue of public intervention and aid for private storage of selected dairy products. In conclusion, the author stresses, inter alia, the activity of the EU legislator on the relevant market. The legislator is aware of the difficult situation of agricultural producers and introduces new forms of legal support for milk producers. There is no doubt that they contribute to greater stability and growth of that market. However, the financial situation of milk farmers, especially smaller ones is usually difficult. It is associated not only with the abolition of the milk production quota, but also with the export situation and, as a result, with lower milk prices