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
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.

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