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.
Meat stocks rose seasonally but remain below last year overall, while tighter butter inventories could support dairy prices, and belly stocks warrant close watch for pork markets.
January 26, 2026 03:00 PM
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Rising import pressure and tougher export competition are likely to persist into 2026, supporting domestic supplies while capping export growth.
January 26, 2026 09:56 AM
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Mike Steenhoek with the Soy Transportation Coalition discusses supply chain challenges facing agriculture as snow, sleet and ice threaten most of the Eastern U.S.
January 23, 2026 01:36 PM
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Brian Earnest, an animal protein economist with CoBank, shares insights into current demand trends and the challenges facing broiler production.
January 22, 2026 06:34 PM
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From tariff talks in Europe to SCOTUS uncertainty and rising farm losses, analysts say policy and global supply will shape grain markets in the year ahead.
January 22, 2026 12:40 PM
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Large Brazilian crops heighten downside price risk if the weather allows production to reach projected levels.
January 22, 2026 12:38 PM
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