DCA benchmarks: Cheese commentary week 14

Cheese benchmarks showed mixed results in week 14 (April 2), with foil cheeses and Mozzarella presenting declines, while Emmentaler and Cheddar moved higher and other benchmarks remained stable. Overall, market sentiment weakened, with cautious buyers and softer export demand putting pressure on the market.Edam recorded the strongest decline this week, closing at €3,555, down 1.7% week-on-week, but still up 1.9% compared to last month. Gouda, Frau Antje and Mozzarella followed a similar trend, with additional pressure reported for Mozzarella due to weaker export demand and expectations of continued availability in the coming weeks, which could further weigh on prices.In contrast, the Cheddar market moved slightly higher, led by a modest increase of 0.8% in Curd, while the Mild benchmark remained stable, with both benchmarks closing at €3,565 and therefore showing no premium prices benchmarks this week. Emmentaler recorded the strongest increase this week, closing at €3,865, up 5.2% week-on-week and 5% compared to the previous month. However, this was reported within a wide range of inputs (€3550–€4000). Market sentiment points to a weaker tone overall, with reduced export demand and more cautious buying interest across Europe ahead of Easter. Exports in the coming period remain uncertain, which could lead volumes to be redirected towards Europe, potentially adding further pressure on prices, with some contributors expecting additional pressure depending on post-Easter demand developments.