WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD-TV) — The latest World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimate (WASDE) Report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) shows livestock markets experiencing mixed momentum, as cattle and hog production move lower while dairy output continues to grow.
The update gives producers an early view of how slaughter trends, disease pressures, and product prices may shape margins over the next year. Beef and cattle markets see the most signs of tightening, hog supplies are slipping as slaughter slows, and dairy faces downward pressure from larger milk volumes.
For cattle, the USDA lowered 2025 beef production on reduced steer and heifer slaughter and lighter weights, even though cow and bull slaughter is expected to rise. Prices for the fourth quarter of 2025 were revised down and are forecast to remain soft into early 2026. The agency also lowered 2026 beef output as the slower fed-cattle marketings are expected to extend into next year.
Hog markets show similar signs of tightening: USDA reduced 2025 pork production due to a slower slaughter pace that outweighs heavier carcass weights. Updated inventory data also point to smaller hog supplies in 2026, prompting the USDA to raise its 2026 hog price outlook even as late-2025 prices ease.
Dairy markets are moving in the opposite direction. USDA raised milk production forecasts for both 2025 and 2026 on higher cow inventories and stronger productivity. Larger milk supplies are pushing product prices lower — particularly butter, cheese, and nonfat dry milk — leading to reduced Class III and Class IV values. The all-milk price is now forecast at $21.05/cwt for 2025 and $19.25/cwt for 2026. Dairy exports, however, were increased due to competitive butter, cheese, and whey markets.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Cattle and hog supplies continue to tighten while dairy output expands, creating a split outlook in which red-meat prices soften and milk values come under pressure from larger supplies.
Tony St. James, RFD-TV Markets Specialist
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