Period: March 19 – 30, 2018
Australia
+3.5%milk production
February 2018
In Australia, milk production in February 2018 was +3.5% higher than February 2017. The first 8 months of the dairy season, began in July 2017, recorded +3.5%.
Milk production in New Zealand decreased by -2.3% in February 2018 compared to February 2017, and the season June 2017 – February 2018 recorded -0.2%.
New Zealand
-2.3%milk production
February 2018
More confidence of greater milk production have led a decrease in the Butter price in Oceania.
Average SMP prices increased. In the longer run, the significant volumes of SMP available globally are expected to weigh on Oceania prices, even recognizing the preference of some customers for specific sources in the region.
The mid-March Cheddar price peak did not favor transactions and, outside of Oceania, aggressive sales efforts are underway. This led to a weakening of Cheddar’s prices in Oceania.
WMP prices in Oceania are slightly lower. At this point in the milk production season, many customers have contracted for much WMP they anticipate needing in coming months. Current transactional activity reflects smaller volumes than a number of previous months this season. There is not much expectation for significant price movement in coming weeks.