US dairy exports hit all-time high

"In 2 decades, the US dairy market has grown from a single market to the third largest exporter in the world. An achievement to be proud of," said Michael Dykes, president of the International Dairy Foods Association.

Dairy exports of 2,4 million tons by volume were worth $6,45 billion last year, a record and up 9% from a year earlier. It is the first time since 2014 that the export value again exceeds $6 billion. "About 15% of our milk production is now exported," says Dykes. "Exports to Asia, including China, the Philippines, Indonesia and Malaysia, even increased in value by 40% to 50% last year."

Neighboring countries are at the top
Neighboring countries top the list when it comes to key export markets for the United States. Mexico bought $1,41 billion worth of dairy products from its northern neighbor. Incidentally, this is a decrease of 8% compared to the previous year. Exports to Canada, on the other hand, increased by 1%, making the country the second largest market for the United States. It is valued at $675,9 million. In third place is China: +45% to $539 million.

Exports to the Philippines have also increased sharply. Last year, the export value of dairy products from the United States increased by no less than 50% to $409,8 million. South Korea declined 12% more to reach a value of $370,4 million. “Expanding access to international markets is essential to secure the future of US dairy exports,” said Dykes.

Main products
The most important export product last year was milk powder (with less than 1,5% fat). Its value rose by 22% to $2 billion. Then comes the cheeses, with a total value of $1,3 billion. Milk concentrates and proteins follow in third place. Its value was $355 million last year, a 6% increase over the previous year.