The whey protein market remains strong in week 29 (July 15), although recent developments suggest some easing in momentum. WPC80 benchmarks continued to decline amid limited spot availability, with lower-priced product weighing on overall pricing. Meanwhile, WPI90 remained elevated despite minimal trading activity.
Analysis|Published: Jul 13, 2026
Dutch raw milk benchmarks have recovered sharply in recent weeks as milk production growth moderates and lower summer milk collections reduce surplus milk availability in the spot market. Despite the rebound, the market remains well below last year's levels, reflecting an improved market balance rather than a tighter milk supply. At the same time, additional Dutch milk continues to be absorbed primarily through regional bulk trade.
Analysis|Published: Jul 9, 2026
The powder market maintained a positive tone in week 28, with all DCA benchmarks increasing except lactose, which remained stable. WMP recorded the strongest weekly gain, while SMP continued to strengthen across both the food and feed segments despite mixed views on underlying demand and concerns over the future competitiveness of EU exports. The whey complex also moved higher, supported by prices that remain well above year-ago levels, although the feed segment continues to from the previous month. Lactose remained unchanged during the week but continued to trade at elevated levels compared with both the previous month and the previous year.
Analysis|Published: Jul 9, 2026
DCA cheese benchmarks strengthened in week 28 (July 9), supported by firm market conditions and tighter milk availability. Gouda recorded the strongest weekly increase, while Mozzarella remained the highest-priced mainstream cheese and continued to show relative resilience. Although the market has recovered from recent lows, most cheese prices remain well below both the previous month and year-ago levels, with Cheddar pressured by an ample Irish supply. Contributor also reported a stronger demand for cream and skimmed milk concentrate, which reduced milk availability for cheese production despite generally cautious buying activity.
Analysis|Published: Jul 7, 2026
New Zealand and Australia both closed the 2025/26 milk season with stronger-than-expected production, supported by favorable milk composition and improved farm performance. While New Zealand recorded a record season, Australia also finished on a positive note with accelerating production growth and broad regional gains, despite poor results earlier in the season. Looking ahead, however, weather uncertainty and rising input costs remain risks that could affect milk production in both countries over the coming months.
Analysis|Published: Jul 3, 2026
DCA dairy powder benchmarks observed a notable increase in all reported commodities in week 27, except for SWP Feed. Milk powders were supported by tighter milk availability and stronger liquid dairy prices, while WMP remained relatively stable on steady demand and competitive EU export pricing. Although the whey complex delivered mixed results, contributors highlighted that the decline in SWP Feed appears disconnected from current market fundamentals, suggesting that prices may recover in the coming weeks.
