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 GlobalDairyTrade auction saw the fifth consecutive gain for dairy prices since December.
The GDT price index has risen 10.1% since the February 3 auction, with the average price now at US$3,366.
Across the board, prices were up. Cheddar gained the greatest ground with an average price of US$3,054, a 16.8% rise since the last auction. This was followed by whole milk powder, up 13.7% with an average price of US$3,272. Skim milk powder also saw gains.
Last night's results will be welcome news for farmers, many of whom are struggling with a combination of drought conditions and a lower than expected payout.
Key Results:
AMF index up 6.4%, average price US$4,314/MT
Butter index up 1.1%, average price US$3,823/MT
BMP index up 1.9%, average price US$2,674/MT
Ched index up 16.8%, average price US$3,054/MT
LAC not offered
RenCas index up 1.2%, average price US$8,897/MT
SMP index up 5.7%, average price US$2,744/MT
SWP index not available, average price not available
WMP index up 13.7%, average price US$3,272/MT
Full results have been published on www.GlobalDairyTrade.info.
Acclaimed fruit grower Dean Astill never imagined he would have achieved so much in the years since being named the first Young Horticulturist of the Year, 20 years ago.
The Ashburton-based Carrfields Group continues to show commitment to future growth and in the agricultural sector with its latest investment, the recently acquired 'Spring Farm' adjacent to State Highway 1, Winslow, just south of Ashburton.
New Zealand First leader and Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters has blasted Fonterra farmers shareholders for approving the sale of iconic brands to a French company.
A major feature of the Ashburton A&P Show, to be held on October 31 and November 1, will be the annual trans-Tasman Sheep Dog Trial test match, with the best heading dogs from both sides of the Tasman going head-to-head in two teams of four.
Fewer bobby calves are heading to the works this season, as more dairy farmers recognise the value of rearing calves for beef.
The key to a dairy system that generates high profit with a low emissions intensity is using low footprint feed, says Fonterra program manager on-farm excellence, Louise Cook.