The trade stakes are high for the dairy industry

The dairy industry is keeping a close eye on trade policies. The U.S. exports a little more than 15 percent of dairy products, meaning access to global markets affects supply and prices.

‘Dairy has big stakes in export markets. We export about 16 or 17% of our production, so if we lose those or lose a portion of them, then that means products are backing up into the U.S., and unless we find new homes for those, either domestically or in other markets, then prices drop because we have too much supply. So, the stakes are very high for dairy, and of course, our three biggest markets are Mexico, Canada, and China,” said National Milk Producers Federation’s Chris Galen.

Canada and Mexico are top markets for U.S. dairy exports, with ongoing efforts to strengthen ties. Meanwhile, China remains the largest market.

Related Stories
Corn and cotton gave the strongest signals this week, while soybean demand remained softer than in the previous report.
Reliance on vegetable imports remains uneven, with domestic production still anchoring several major categories.
Just like cows, kids experience ups and downs—from small frustrations to unexpected moments—but there is still good in every day.
StoneX’s Josh Linville discusses USDA’s efforts to boost domestic fertilizer production and his outlook on supply and prices.
The Texas Department of Agriculture confirmed a New World Screwworm case about 119 miles from the Texas border, near Zapata, Texas, and north and west of the Rio Grande Valley.
Ethanol demand held together last week, but lower production and thinner stocks put more focus on export strength. Production capacity is also strengthening over time and benefiting soybean farmers.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Dr. Jeffrey Gold joins us on Rural Health Matters to discuss rural mental health awareness, the importance of reducing stigma in agriculture, and resources available to farmers, ranchers, and rural families seeking support.
Utah Senator John Curtis joins us for “Champions of Rural America” to discuss new legislation to improve forest management and wildfire prevention and its broader implications for rural communities and infrastructure.
NRECA CEO Jim Matheson joins us to discuss rural electric co-ops’ push for expanded USDA loan programs, rising energy demand from data center expansion, wildfire mitigation and other policy priorities impacting rural power infrastructure.
With the Farm Bill now in the Senate’s hands, industry groups say the stakes are high—and timely action could be critical for producers navigating a difficult economic environment.