Ahome's Milk Surplus Challenges Local Market

The dairy sector in Ahome, Sinaloa, has reached a milestone in milk production; however, this success has led to a surplus, saturating the local market. Consequently, dairy farmers are compelled to find new commercial channels, exploring options in nearby regions such as the Valley of Yaqui. For producers, analysts, and dairy industry professionals, this scenario exemplifies the necessity of pairing successful production with a solid market strategy to ensure business profitability and sustainability.

The surplus in Ahome results from milk production outpacing the local industry's absorption capacity and consumer demand. Enhanced management practices, cattle nutrition, and animal welfare have led to increased raw milk volumes per cow. A lack of secure buyers for this surplus could drive down milk prices, threatening farm viability. Seeking a market for the surplus in the Valley of Yaqui is a strategic move that demonstrates the resilience and adaptability of Ahome's producers. Investment in transport logistics and refrigeration technology is crucial for delivering raw milk to processing centers in the Valley of Yaqui while maintaining the highest quality and safety standards.

Collaboration between farmers and processors from other regions is vital for this commercial strategy's success. This issue highlights the need for the Mexican dairy sector to invest in processing infrastructure and develop value-added products. Transforming milk into cheese, yogurt, butter, or milk powder locally could decrease reliance on selling raw milk and generate higher income for producers. Product diversification is key to mitigating market risks.