Strong production, tested demand send milk prices crashing
Strong global milk production and rebalancing of demand among key buyers has delivered one of the biggest drops in whole milk powder prices in recent years.
Global dairy prices have taken a hit in the overnight auction.
As predicted by the futures market, prices fell as concerns grew around coronavirus in China and its impact on global trade.
China is Fonterra’s major key market: Around 11% of all dairy consumption in China comes from Fonterra
The GDT price index fell 4.7%: whole milk powder down 6.2%, skimmed milk powder down 4.2%, and butter up 0.2%.
Updated coronavirus statistics show confirmed cases total 20,708 worldwide (20,483 in China), of which 4% have recovered, 13% are in critical condition, and 427 have died (425 in China).
Key results
AMF index down 4.5%, average price US$4,626/MT
Butter index up 0.2%, average price US$4,258/MT
BMP index down 5.2%, average price US$2,886/MT
Ched index up 6.0%, average price US$4,302/MT
LAC index up 2.5%, average price US$830/MT
RenCas index up 6.0%, average price US$9,956/MT
SMP index down 4.2%, average price US$2,907/MT
SWP index not available, average price not available
WMP index down 6.2%, average price US$3,039/MT
According to ASB, Fonterra's plan to sell it's Anchor and Mainlands brands could inject $4.5 billion in additional spending into the economy.
New Zealand’s trade with the European Union has jumped $2 billion since a free trade deal entered into force in May last year.
The climate of uncertainty and market fragmentation that currently characterises the global economy suggests that many of the European agricultural machinery manufacturers will be looking for new markets.
Dignitaries from all walks of life – the governor general, politicians past and present, Maoridom- including the Maori Queen, church leaders, the primary sector and family and friends packed Our Lady of Kapiti’s Catholic church in Paraparaumu on Thursday October 23 to pay tribute to former prime Minister, Jim Bolger who died last week.
Agriculture and Forestry Minister, Todd McClay is encouraging farmers, growers, and foresters not to take unnecessary risks, asking that they heed weather warnings today.
With nearly two million underutilised dairy calves born annually and the beef price outlook strong, New Zealand’s opportunity to build a scalable dairy-beef system is now.
OPINION: Voting is underway for Fonterra’s divestment proposal, with shareholders deciding whether or not sell its consumer brands business.
OPINION: Politicians and Wellington bureaucrats should take a leaf out of the book of Canterbury District Police Commander Superintendent Tony Hill.