A tightening cheese supply is sending prices higher globally.
This month cheddar block prices reached $2.27 per pound. Cobank says that is the highest price in 27 months.
Class III Milk futures are also on the rise, with the bundle average reaching $22.90 in the week following Labor Day. While higher prices moving into the fall is great, traders do not believe they will hang around for long.
CME has the four-month average for January to April 2025 Class III features at just $19.80.
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China’s renewed purchases signal improving sorghum demand at a time when export markets are otherwise uneven. Meanwhile, agriculture groups across the U.S, Canada, and Mexico want to protect close trade relations.
Despite the need for swift action, many ag lawmakers and industry groups argue that farm aid alone will likely not be sufficient to help farmers without improved trade relations with China.
Tyson’s capacity cuts weaken local basis, tighten kill space, and heighten dependence on imports, signaling more volatility for producers.
Strong yields and higher cattle prices helped stabilize conditions, but weak crop prices and rising carryover debt remain major challenges for Eleventh District farmers.