Global Dairy Trade: A Pillar in the Global Dairy Industry

Global Dairy Trade (GDT) stands as a cornerstone entity within the international dairy market, strategically headquartered in Auckland, New Zealand. This location is significant as New Zealand is a prominent dairy producer, bolstering GDT's position in the global market.

Financial Indicators

GDT has reported a 4.6% increase in its price index, rising to 1,311, with the average price per metric tonne reaching €3,794. This increase follows a period of fluctuations, including a prior 1.6% drop, indicative of the market's volatile nature.

Important Events

GDT's auctions are pivotal in the dairy market. Notably, the 384th auction on July 15, 2025, marked a turning point after four consecutive declines, with a 1.1% increase in the Price Index following a significant 6.9% drop. The subsequent 385th auction on August 5, 2025, recorded a 0.7% increase, signaling market stabilization. However, the 387th auction saw a 4.3% drop due to oversupply. On November 4, 2025, the auction noted a 2.4% decrease in average dairy product prices, setting the price at USD 3,768 per metric ton, with 146 bidders participating and 39,508 metric tons sold. The 394th edition on December 16, 2025, recorded a 4.4% decline in its general price index, concluding with a weighted average price of USD 3,341 per ton. Despite falling prices, the auction saw high participation, with 156 registered sellers and 120 successful bidders, spanning 17 bidding rounds over nearly two hours.

The inaugural event of 2026, identified as Event 395 on January 6, sent a positive message to the international dairy market with the GDT Price Index experiencing a notable rise of 6.3% compared to the previous event, marking a robust start to the year for global dairy prices.

Company Plans

GDT is committed to enhancing its auction platform to improve transparency and efficiency. The organization plans to expand its services and incorporate innovative technologies, utilizing advanced analytical tools to optimize operations. This strategy aims to maintain GDT's leadership as the prime platform for global dairy trade.

Leadership

Under the leadership of CEO Lloyd Cartwright, GDT continues to play a pivotal role in shaping international dairy prices, with significant impacts in markets worldwide, including Asia and India.

Market Challenges

The latest Global Dairy Trade auction has confirmed challenging market conditions, with the GDT price index recording its ninth consecutive decline.

Modified: 2026/01/25