USDA forecasts a slight increase in Australia's milk production in 2026

According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Australia is forecast to reach approximately 8.55 million tons of milk (equivalent to 8.3 billion liters) in 2026, an increase of 0.6% from the 2025 estimate. This growth is primarily due to more favorable weather conditions, as improved spring rainfall significantly enhances pasture and green roughage, providing a positive foundation for dairy farming. Additionally, the relatively positive economic context and improved profit margins have encouraged dairy farmers to enhance operational efficiency, thereby increasing productivity per cow. The USDA believes that the size of the dairy herd will remain stable at around 1.35 million cows, while the average milk yield is expected to reach a record high due to optimal nutritional management and increased use of concentrates and additives. On the commercial front, the outlook shows differentiation: whole milk powder (WMP) exports are expected to decrease by 13% in 2026 ...