Markets resilient, farmers hopeful
OPINION: The global dairy market continues to show resilience, and farmers remain cautiously optimistic as we move into the latter half of 2025.
Last night's Global Dairy Trade auction saw the average price index fall for the fourth consecutive time, dropping 3.5% to US$2,515.
New Zealand's key export product whole milk powder saw a decrease of 1.8% to US$2,386/tonne.
While the average price for skim milk powder, fell 7.5% to US$2,048.
However, butter milk powder and rennet casein had the greatest decreases; butter milk powder dropped 14% to US$1,748, rennet casein was down 11% to US$6,094.
Anhydrous milk fat and butter also fell with drops of 6.3% to US$3,505 and 0.8% to US$3,005 respectively.
Cheddar was the only product to see gains in the auction, with an average rise of 9.1% to US$3,012.
This will be bad news for dairy farmers still reeling after Fonterra lowered its farmgate milk price forecast last week from $4.70 kgMS from $4.50.
Key Prices
AMF index down 6.3%, average price US$3,505/MT
Butter index down 0.8%, average price US$3,005/MT
BMP index down 14.0%, average price US$1,748/MT
Ched index up 9.1%, average price US$3,012/MT
LAC index not available, average price not available
RenCas index down 11.0%, average price US$6,094/MT
SMP index down 7.5%, average price US$2,048/MT
SWP not offered
WMP index down 1.8%, average price US$2,386/MT
According to Ravensdown's most recent Market Outlook report, a combination of geopolitical movements and volatile market responses are impacting the global fertiliser landscape.
Environment Canterbury, alongside industry partners and a group of farmers, is encouraging farmers to consider composting as an environmentally friendly alternative to offal pits.
A New Zealand dairy industry leader believes the free trade deal announced with India delivers wins for the sector.
The Coalition Government will need the support of at least one opposition party to ratify the free trade deal with India.
Primary sector leaders have welcomed the announcement of a Free Trade Agreement between India and New Zealand.
At Pāmu’s Kepler Farm in Manapouri, mating has wrapped up at the across-breed Beef Progeny Test.

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