Dairy Prices in Oaxaca: A Persistent Climb

Oaxaca's bustling markets are witnessing a steady climb in dairy prices, as reported by local vendors. Cheese, quesillo, and other milk derivatives have seen price increases ranging from 2 to 5 pesos annually, a reflection of broader economic pressures.

Vendors at the central 20 de Noviembre market noted that the cost of a liter of milk has risen to between 15 and 17 pesos, up from just 12 or 13 pesos the previous year. This pattern is similarly observed in the pricing of other dairy products, including cheese and quesillo.

"Now it depends on each producer how much they want to set the milk price. Hence, we also need to adjust our product prices while ensuring quality," expressed Rosa, a seasoned cheese vendor.Price adjustments in Oaxaca are driven by various economic factors. According to the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (Inegi), Oaxaca reported a 4.92% increase in dairy product prices in 2024, compared to 2.59% in 2023. Pasteurized and fresh milk saw a 3.82% increase, while processed milk rose by 1.47%. These statistics underscore a trend of rising living costs impacting residents across the region.