RaboResearch: Leading Insights in Dairy Markets

RaboResearch is a prominent entity within the agricultural economics sector, known for its comprehensive analyses of global dairy markets. As part of the Rabobank Group, it plays a crucial role in influencing decision-making processes among stakeholders in the agricultural industry.

Location and Operations

RaboResearch operates under the umbrella of Rabobank, headquartered in Utrecht, Netherlands. Rabobank is a major financial services provider specializing in the food and agriculture sectors, with a broad global network.

Financial Indicators

In the first half of 2021, Rabobank, the parent organization of RaboResearch, reported a net profit of approximately €1.1 billion. This strong financial foundation supports Rabobank's extensive agricultural research initiatives, including those conducted by RaboResearch.

Key Personnel

Lucas Fuess, a renowned agricultural economist at RaboResearch, focuses on the dairy market. He offers invaluable insights for stakeholders by analyzing trends, supply forecasts, and economic conditions affecting global dairy producers. Global dairy strategist Mary Ledman also contributes by addressing challenges such as the impact of post-COVID inflation and weak global economic conditions on the dairy industry.

Significant Insights and Predictions

Lucas Fuess has recently forecasted favorable market conditions for dairy producers, driven by tight milk supplies and strong consumer demand. The 2025 quarterly report highlighted a 0.8% year-on-year growth in milk production across the Big 7 export regions. Despite challenges, global dairy prices continue to rise, reflecting a robust market.

Company Plans

RaboResearch is committed to advancing its operations by incorporating advanced analytics and innovative methodologies. This strategic approach aims to provide precise and actionable insights that support sustainable growth in the global dairy industry. The organization forecasts a total production increase of around 6.5% for 2025 with slightly lower growth in the latter half due to a high base effect. RaboResearch also provides insights on global supply disruptions, such as the impact of the closed Strait of Hormuz on global supplies, affecting farmer margins and increasing costs for key dairy inputs.

In New Zealand, despite cost challenges, RaboResearch anticipates a profitable dairy season for 2026/27. The organization participated in a panel discussing structural changes in New Zealand's dairy-beef sector. Jen Corkran of RaboResearch noted international supply shortages and improved genetics driving shifts in the industry. Additionally, a report titled 'Milk protein scarcity challenges Australian dairy’s cheese-centric model' describes limitations due to low national milk production and flat raw milk supply.

RaboResearch’s third quarterly global dairy report highlights the slowing growth in global dairy supply and the impact of various market factors.