New milestone in Red Cow Diplomacy

Denmark and Thailand share a long history of collaboration in dairy production. The birth of the first calf from a Danish embryo in Thailand marks a milestone in Red Cow Diplomacy and signals the return of the red cow to Southeast Asia.

Thailand has welcomed a very special addition to its dairy farming heritage — a red calf from a Danish embryo born on June 22, 2025, at the Thai-Denmark Dairy Farm in Muak Lek, Saraburi.

This birth marks the successful outcome of the Cow Diplomacy Project, a groundbreaking initiative that leverages advanced embryo transfer and IVF technology to revive the red dairy cattle breed in Thailand.

The calf’s birth comes nearly a year after the embryo was transferred into a Holstein-Friesian surrogate mother on September 15, 2024. It represents not only scientific and agricultural progress but also the rekindling of a historical and symbolic partnership between Thailand and Denmark.

The story behind the special calf

Have you ever heard the story of VikingRed and Thai-Denmark Milk? Started in 1962, this remarkable partnership originated from a shared interest in dairy between Danish King Frederik IX and Thai King Bhumibol (Rama IX).

DPO Thai-Denmark Milk began as a shared dairy enterprise to share dairy knowledge and solidify ties between the two countries. That same year, 39 Danish red dairy cows and “Ole” the bull arrived in Thailand, and a strong international collaboration was born.

Now, decades later, a new chapter unfolds. On January 31, 2022, the Department of Livestock Development of Thailand and the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The aim was clear: to strengthen international academic cooperation in dairy science.

This collaboration took a tangible step forward on September 28, 2023, when red Dane cattle embryos and semen were formally handed over from Denmark to Thailand. These precious genetic materials were entrusted to the Dairy Farming Promotion Organization of Thailand (DPO), with the goal of reintroducing the Danish Red dairy cattle — a breed that once disappeared from the Thai landscape.

During the visit of the Danish Livestock and Food Processing Business Delegation to Thailand, VikingGenetics CEO Louise Helmer presented a donation of VikingRed genetics to Thai-Denmark Milk that embodies the spirit of 1962. 19 VikingRed embryos and 20 doses of VR Umega P sexed semen marked the return of VikingRed cows to Thailand and empowered the country’s dairy sector.

“Red Cow Diplomacy’ captures what VikingGenetics stands for: collaborating to sustainably feed the world’s growing population by breeding healthy, productive cows,” says Louise Helmer.

“It reflects our commitment to fostering connections, endorsing future-friendly practices, and honouring the tenacity of farmers across borders,” she adds.

A donation embodying collaboration

This collaboration took a tangible step forward on September 28, 2023, when red Dane cattle embryos and semen were formally handed over from Denmark to Thailand. These precious genetic materials were entrusted to the Dairy Farming Promotion Organization of Thailand (DPO), with the goal of reintroducing the Danish Red dairy cattle — a breed that once disappeared from the Thai landscape.

During the visit of the Danish Livestock and Food Processing Business Delegation to Thailand, VikingGenetics CEO Louise Helmer presented a donation of VikingRed genetics to Thai-Denmark Milk that embodies the spirit of 1962. 19 VikingRed embryos and 20 doses of VR Umega P sexed semen marked the return of VikingRed cows to Thailand and empowered the country’s dairy sector.

“Red Cow Diplomacy’ captures what VikingGenetics stands for: collaborating to sustainably feed the world’s growing population by breeding healthy, productive cows,” says Louise Helmer.

“It reflects our commitment to fostering connections, endorsing future-friendly practices, and honouring the tenacity of farmers across borders,” she adds.

Honouring a shared past

For VikingGenetics, this donation is more than a gesture — it honors this shared past and supports projects like the Thai-Danish Dairy Farm.

“The Thai-Denmark Milk logo features a red cow and its calf. This makes this donation even closer to our hearts. VikingReds are adaptable and resilient cows, and we are proud of their history in Thailand,” says Louise Helmer.

The project not only supports local farmers with resilient cattle but also embodies the broader vision of using dairy science as a bridge between cultures and economies. ‘Red Cow Diplomacy’ is a prime example of how international collaboration can drive sustainable food production and improve animal welfare through innovative genetic solutions.

More than just livestock, the Danish Red dairy cattle symbolize the enduring relationship between the two nations. The return of the red cattle marks more than animal husbandry – it is the preservation of cultural heritage and a testament to a valued international partnership. This generous contribution also reflects Denmark’s commitment to fostering sustainable agricultural development in Thailand.

With the birth of this red Dane calf, the past and future of Thai-Danish cooperation converge, bringing with it the promise of healthier herds, strengthened ties, and a brighter future for Thailand’s dairy industry.

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