Global Dairy Production Increases Lead to Market Price Reductions

At the recent Fermanagh Grassland Club annual meeting, Darren Carty from the Irish Farmers’ Journal provided an in-depth analysis of current trends in the dairy and beef markets. He highlighted that global dairy production experienced significant growth in 2025, with the European Union seeing a 4.3% increase, the United States a 4% rise, and New Zealand a 2% uptick.

This increase in production has contributed to a weakening of market prices by up to 10 cents compared to two years ago. Despite these reductions, 2025 was still considered relatively positive for the dairy sector. In the United Kingdom, milk supplies increased by 5.3%, while Ireland saw a 5.8% rise, driven by favorable weather and lower feed costs.

Regarding the beef market, the number of suckler cows decreased by 23% between 2013 and 2023, while dairy cow numbers rose by 38%. This shift has occurred alongside a forecast for increased beef consumption worldwide, notwithstanding a reduction in cattle herds globally.

The United States currently has its cattle herd at a record low, prompting an increase in beef exports from Brazil to the U.S. However, Brazil faces challenges concerning animal welfare and traceability, which have led to trade controversies.

Newly elected office-bearers for the Fermanagh Grassland Club include Connor Donaldson as Chairman and Rodney Clarke as Vice-Chairman. The next meeting is scheduled for January 13, 2026, featuring speaker Stephen Houston, a dairy farmer from Glarryford.