U.S. Dairy Exports Inch Up to Start 2025
U.S. dairy exports kicked off 2025 with gains in almost all major product categories.
U.S. dairy exports began the year on a positive note with increases in most product categories, despite challenges in the nonfat dry milk and lactose segments.
In January, U.S. export values surged by 20% to reach $714 million, marking a new monthly record. Cheese exports continued their upward trend with a 22% rise in volume, marking the 13th consecutive month of year-over-year increase. The gains were fueled by diverse international markets from Mexico to Japan and Bahrain.
In contrast, NFDM exports suffered a drop, exacerbated by elevated U.S. prices compared to global benchmarks.
In January, U.S. export values surged by 20% to reach $714 million, marking a new monthly record. Cheese exports continued their upward trend with a 22% rise in volume, marking the 13th consecutive month of year-over-year increase. The gains were fueled by diverse international markets from Mexico to Japan and Bahrain.
Meanwhile, the U.S. saw a resurgence in whey exports, largely driven by demand from China. Butter exports and anhydrous milkfat (AMF) also saw significant growth due to competitive pricing in the international market. However, on the downside, nonfat dry milk (NFDM)/skim milk powder struggled due to high U.S. prices and production challenges. Butterfat exports in January highlighted a dramatic year-over-year increase, with the highest volume since 2014, due primarily to a significant price advantage over international competitors.
In contrast, NFDM exports suffered a drop, exacerbated by elevated U.S. prices compared to global benchmarks.
