U.S. dairy exports decreased but still historically strong

Despite getting off to a slower start than a year ago, January 2021 U.S. dairy exports were still the second highest on a volume basis and third highest on a value basis for any January in history, according to a monthly update from the U.S. Dairy Export Council (USDEC). As in recent months, port congestion, container and labor shortages, and a host of other shipping challenges appear to be undercutting U.S. agricultural exports – including dairy. Reduced demand from Mexico also took a toll when compared to a year ago. Here’s a look at the latest topline numbers and issues identified by the USDEC. Volume basis: On a milk solids equivalent basis, January 2021 exports were estimated at 161,000 metric tons (MT), down about 5% from January 2020. The USDEC attributes much of that total decline to a 10% drop in nonfat dry milk and skim milk powder exports due to ongoing U.S. port issues, even as U.S. prices remain competitive on the global market. Among other major products, cheese and ...