Find out how rising milk demand is reducing cheese stocks and affecting prices and exports. Will this trend keep changing the dairy market? Learn more here.
The dairy market is changing in a terrain defined by uncertainty. Growing demand for milk here and abroad has resulted in declining cheese supplies.
Over successive months, cheese supplies in cold storage have dropped, leading to a dramatic price rise and difficulties for new exporting companies. Reflecting this, the USDA observes, “Cheese markets are not bullish or bearish, but indecisive.” LaSalle Street shows this feeling with changing spot Cheddar block and barrel pricing.
“Cheese markets are not bullish or bearish, but indecisive.” – USDA
These factors affect home as well as foreign markets. While decreasing mozzarella sales and high prices discourage new export contracts, they show steady domestic demand for cheese. The erratic character of market dynamics points to stormy times ahead for those involved.
Spring Surprises: An Unanticipated Shift in Cheese Production and Inventories
| Month | Production Volume (Million Pounds) | Year-over-Year Change (%) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 1,102 | +1.2% |
| February | 1,018 | +0.9% |
| March | 1,165 | -0.7% |
| April | 1,150 | -1.0% |
| May | 1,190 | -1.5% |
Driven by the ‘spring flush,’ when cows produce more milk, spring often marks a period of higher cheese output in the dairy sector. This surplus of milk leads to more significant, less expensive supplies for cheese makers, which in turn drives more manufacturing and inventory build-up. However, this year, the situation was different due to rising milk costs and growing demand, resulting in a contraction in cheese supplies.
Still, spot milk prices were high this year as cheese’s local and export demand increased. This odd situation resulted in cheese supplies declining from March through May, the lowest May inventories since 2019.
The present situation emphasizes how global demand and price changes may disrupt established dairy industry supply lines.
Demand Dynamics: Unpacking the Surge in Milk Consumption and Its Ripple Effects
| Time Period | Export Demand (Million Pounds) | Domestic Demand (Million Pounds) | Total Demand (Million Pounds) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Q1 2023 | 250 | 1,200 | 1,450 |
| Q2 2023 | 300 | 1,250 | 1,550 |
| Q3 2023 | 320 | 1,280 | 1,600 |
| Q4 2023 (Projected) | 340 | 1,300 | 1,640 |
For several reasons, both domestic and export milk demand has increased. American tastes for dairy goods like unique yogurts and handcrafted cheeses have changed. This shift in consumer preferences is further fueled by the economic recovery after the pandemic, which has increased disposable income and a greater focus on health and nutrition, thereby boosting the demand for dairy products.
Globally, U.S. milk products are much sought after because of their competitive price and superior quality. Rising Asian and Latin American emerging markets are increasingly looking for nutrient-rich diets. Additionally, increasing exports ease trade barriers.
This demand increase has limited milk supplies for cheese manufacture. Usually, the spring flush period sees an excess of inexpensive milk aimed toward cheese manufacturing; however, rising milk costs and growing demand have altered this year and resulted in a contraction in cheese supplies. The increase in milk costs has made cheese production more expensive, leading to a decrease in cheese supplies.
Strong export markets and rising domestic consumption have pressured milk supply, pushing cheese makers to negotiate a limited milk procurement scene. Strong cheese demand and shortage have caused market instability and price rises.
A Season of Scarcity: The Decline in Cheese Stocks Reveals Market Vulnerabilities
| Month | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 1.37 | 1.41 | 1.48 | 1.50 | 1.52 | 1.46 |
| February | 1.35 | 1.38 | 1.45 | 1.47 | 1.50 | 1.44 |
| March | 1.33 | 1.35 | 1.42 | 1.45 | 1.47 | 1.41 |
| April | 1.32 | 1.33 | 1.41 | 1.43 | 1.46 | 1.38 |
| May | 1.31 | 1.32 | 1.39 | 1.41 | 1.44 | 1.34 |
This year’s noteworthy drop in cheese supplies Cheese stockpiles at the end of May amounted to 1.44 billion pounds, a 3.7% decline from May 2023, marking the lowest May total since 2019.
While prices were flat in June as the market battled to draw fresh export business, this inventory loss caused a price spike in April and May. While sales of mozzarella dropped, home demand for other cheeses remained robust. With CME spot Cheddar blocks climbing 6.5ȼ to $1.91 per pound and barrels sliding 4ȼ to $1.88, the USDA labeled the market “indecisive.”
Global Competition Heats: U.S. Cheese Exporters Face Escalating Prices and Adverse Exchange Rates
| Month | Cheese Exports (Million lbs) | YoY Change (%) | Export Price ($/lb) |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 60.5 | +2.4% | 1.75 |
| February | 58.2 | +3.1% | 1.78 |
| March | 59.8 | +1.8% | 1.80 |
| April | 61.3 | +4.5% | 1.85 |
| May | 62.0 | +3.0% | 1.82 |
Exporters are battling intense worldwide competition and rising cheese costs. Both domestic and export demand has raised prices, so U.S. cheese-less competitiveness abroad has suffered. This has made it difficult—a difficulty that still exists—to get fresh export contracts.
The strong U.S. currency makes American goods more costly for overseas consumers, aggravating the situation. A lower euro helps European producers; they have raised milk output, strengthening their market share. This increase in European production, particularly in Poland, sharpens the competitiveness of American exporters.
Additionally, changing agricultural policy, European nations are slowing down dairy herd declines and boosting cheese production capacity. New EU rules mandating Dutch farmers to distribute manure across more extensive regions might lower cattle numbers but have little effect on total output shortly.
Despite the challenges, U.S. exporters have the opportunity to navigate the high domestic cheese prices, robust overseas market, and the currency’s economic impact. The key to maintaining a strong presence in the global cheese market lies in strategic orientation, creative pricing, and innovative marketing techniques. These strategies can help the industry adapt to the changing landscape and continue to thrive in the worldwide cheese market.
Domestic Cheese Demand Anchors Market Amidst Uncertainty
| Type of Cheese | Q1 2023 Demand (Million lbs) | Q2 2023 Demand (Million lbs) | Growth Rate (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cheddar | 450 | 470 | 4.4% |
| Mozzarella | 520 | 535 | 2.9% |
| Other Cheeses | 300 | 320 | 6.7% |
Despite the market’s unpredictability, the robust domestic demand for certain cheese types provides a sense of stability. While mozzarella sales may have dipped, the consistent demand for other cheeses has helped maintain market buoyancy amidst fluctuating prices and inventory levels. The enduring popularity of Cheddar, in particular, has been a boon for local manufacturers. The strong demand for a variety of cheese options is a testament to the industry’s ability to navigate market uncertainty.
Whey Market Dynamics: A Tale of Domestic Resilience and Export Challenges
| Product | Domestic Price | Export Price | Trend |
|---|---|---|---|
| Whey Protein Concentrate | $0.45/lb | $0.38/lb | Stable |
| Whey Powder | $0.49/lb | $0.37/lb | Increasing |
Though exports are sluggish, domestic solid demand supports the whey product industry. While export loads are in the mid $0.30s per pound, USDA notes that some load categories are grabbing rates “at and above the $0.45/lb. Mark.” The prices of CME spot whey powder have increased by 2ȼ to a four-month high of 49ȼ by local demand. Although export difficulties still exist, the domestic market demonstrates confidence, which leaves the whey product market in a unique and somewhat dubious state.
Butter Resilience and Emerging Fears: High Inventories Yet Potential Shortages Loom
| Month | Butter Stocks (million pounds) | CME Spot Butter Prices ($/lb) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 360 | $2.95 |
| February | 370 | $3.05 |
| March | 375 | $3.10 |
| April | 378 | $3.12 |
| May | 380 | $3.125 |
Butter stockpiles rose by 3.4% by the end of May to 380 million pounds, the highest level since 2020 and 1993. Still, worries about a possible shortfall later in the year cloud this increase. Rising milk prices and hot weather have boosted CME spot butter prices to $3.125, up 3.5ȼ this week, illustrating the market’s response to high domestic demand and growing expenses.
Milk Powder Puzzles: Navigating the Setbacks in Global and Domestic Markets
| Month | CME Spot Nonfat Dry Milk (Price per lb.) | Notable Market Movements |
|---|---|---|
| January | $1.05 | Stable with minimal shifts in market dynamics |
| February | $1.08 | Minor increase due to lower production volumes |
| March | $1.12 | Gradual upward trend as export demand briefly rises |
| April | $1.15 | Peak due to supply chain disruptions |
| May | $1.10 | Initial decline after export challenges emerge |
| June | $1.18 | Brief recovery, but long-term outlook remains uncertain |
A disappointment at the Global Dairy Trade Pulse auction highlights the declining milk powder industry. CME spot nonfat dry milk is down 2.25ȼ to $1.1825. Soft worldwide demand causes prices to struggle to gather even with minimal U.S. production. Reduced global demand limits price rises even if local output levels fall short of past highs.
European Dairy Gains Momentum: Navigating Increased Production and Stringent Regulations in a Competitive Export Landscape
Europe’s increasing production capacity stands out as the worldwide dairy industry adjusts to competition and demand. With Europe and the UK producing around 31.5 billion pounds in April, a 0.3% rise from April 2023, European milk production exceeded last year’s levels in February, March, and April. While lousy weather hindered growth in Ireland and the UK, Germany and France reported modest output gains.
Reflecting local agricultural efficiency, Poland saw a 5.4% year-over-year increase. Still, this expansion presents some difficulties. New rules meant to satisfy EU climate pledges fall on European farmers. Though there are expectations for slower legislative changes after recent elections, current rules continue.
The EU Nitrate Directive ends Dutch dairy farmers’ exemption from manure derogation rules, aggravating their logistical problems. A 1.3% decline in Dutch milk output in April resulted from almost 40% of Dutch farmers needing help finding adequate space for manure spreading, reducing their cattle numbers.
Strict rules and this higher output are changing the competitiveness of dairy exports. A significant dollar deficit for American goods gives European manufacturers an advantage and complicates the export scene for American exporters.
Market Outlook: A Complex Interplay of Domestic Growth and International Competition
The market’s state shows a combination of domestic strength and foreign challenges. Domestically, growing expenses have driven strong demand for milk and certain cheeses, driving prices even if sales of mozzarella have slowed down. The recent increase in CME spot whey powder indicates this demand has also bolstered whey product prices.
Globally, when European manufacturers raise their production, more competition and an unfavorable exchange rate pose challenges to U.S. cheese exporters. Further strict environmental rules complicate the supply scene even further.
Futures in Class III and IV mirror industry challenges. While fourth-quarter Class IV contracts climbed somewhat, stabilizing in the mid-$21s per cwt, third-quarter Class III futures decreased; the July contract fell 81ȼ to $19.46 per cwt.
Although dairy farmers face market instability, decreased feed costs and high-class III and IV milk prices provide some hope for alleviation in a convoluted worldwide market.
Grain Market Turmoil: Corn Futures Plummet as USDA Reports Upend Expectations
| Month | Corn Price (per bushel) | Soybean Price (per bushel) | Wheat Price (per bushel) |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | $5.50 | $13.00 | $6.20 |
| February | $5.30 | $12.80 | $6.10 |
| March | $5.10 | $12.60 | $6.00 |
| April | $4.85 | $12.40 | $5.90 |
| May | $4.65 | $12.20 | $5.80 |
| June | $4.45 | $12.00 | $5.70 |
After USDA’s Acreage and Grain Stocks figures, December corn futures reached a three-year low. Farmers planted 1.5 million more acres of maize than the early spring poll expected—91.5 million acres. Soybean acreage dropped 400,000 acres to 86.1 million.
September corn futures plummeted 32ȼ to $4.085 per bushel from a massive stockpile of corn acres. The December contract dropped 32ȼ as well, to $4.215. Though there is flooding in the Northern Plains, grain is plentiful and helps keep feed prices down.
The Bottom Line
Recently, the dairy market has shown a combination of volatility and resilience. Unlike past patterns, rising demand has reduced cheese supplies, pushing prices higher but not maintaining them. Strong domestic whey demand helps raise spot prices even in lean export markets. Though possible shortages due to weather and higher milk costs loom, butter supplies have risen. European competitiveness and worldwide demand issues are testing the milk powder sector.
Ahead, the dairy market is expected to negotiate challenging terrain. European manufacturing advantages and political demands might affect world commerce, posing difficulties for American manufacturers. Strong domestic dairy demand might help the price, but global economic and environmental issues will always be critical. Stakeholders have always to be vigilant and ready for changes in the industry.
Key Takeaways:
- Cheese stocks have decreased significantly, with inventories at their lowest since 2019, influencing price changes.
- Domestic milk demand continues to soar, while both domestic and export demands are impacting cheese production and pricing.
- The whey product market remains strong domestically, though export challenges persist.
- Butter stocks are high but fears of shortages later in the year have driven prices up.
- Milk powder market faces setbacks due to soft global demand, despite light U.S. output.
- European dairy production is ramping up, creating stiffer competition for U.S. exports amidst regulatory challenges.
- Grain market upheaval as USDA reports higher-than-expected corn inventories and planted acreage, leading to a dip in corn futures.
- Lower feed costs are anticipated to benefit dairy producers in the face of volatile market conditions.
Summary:
The dairy market is experiencing a shift due to increasing demand for milk both domestically and internationally, leading to declining cheese supplies. This year, the situation was different due to rising milk costs and growing demand, resulting in a contraction in cheese supplies. The USDA has observed that cheese markets are not bullish or bearish, but indecisive. This situation affects both domestic and foreign markets, with decreasing mozzarella sales and high prices discouragering new export contracts. The current situation emphasizes how global demand and price changes may disrupt established dairy industry supply lines. Both domestic and export milk demand have increased due to changing consumer preferences, economic recovery after the pandemic, and rising Asian and Latin American emerging markets seeking nutrient-rich diets. Strong export markets and rising domestic consumption have pressured milk supply, pushing cheese makers to negotiate a limited milk procurement scene. The decline in cheese stocks has revealed market vulnerabilities, with cheese stockpiles at the end of May averaging 1.44 billion pounds, a 3.7% decline from May 2023. The erratic character of market dynamics points to stormy times ahead for those involved in the dairy industry.
