Dairy Commodity markets start the new year on softer ground and with a weaker tone to linger into New Zealand’s new season. Commodity prices have been losing momentum since the midpoint of 2022.

A new report by Rabobank suggests that 2023 will prove to be an uphill climb for New Zealand agriculture, with the difficulty of the climb hinging on four main ‘wildcard’ factors.

The A2 Milk Company (a2MC) says returning its Southland-based Mataura Valley Milk (MVM) plant to profitability remains a key strategic focus.

Softening global demand for milk has led Fonterra to downgrade its 2022-23 forecast milk price.

The country's second largest milk processor is not rushing to lift its milk price forecast despite a rise in global dairy prices.

OPINION: Perhaps Captain Bligh’s infamous line, “the beatings will continue until morale improves”, best summed up the mood of New Zealand’s weary agribusiness sector at Fieldays last year.

Zespri chief executive Dan Mathieson says Zespri is looking at ways to help growers who are facing severe financial pressure as a result of two bad seasons.

The chances for a better season for the country’s apple growers is looking good.

The La Nina weather pattern has played a role in determining the fortunes of the summerfruit sector this season.

Dairy prices rebounded at last week’s Global Dairy Trade (GDT) auction, after three consecutive drops, raising hopes of better days ahead.