Irish milk production is almost bursting at the seams

Irish milk production in November was 525.090 tonnes, which represents an increase of no less than 33,6% compared to last year. Since September, milk production in Ireland has been higher than the previous year. Favourable weather conditions in the autumn are the reason for this. Spikes in Irish milk production are not exceptional, but this significant increase is striking. 

However, cumulative milk production over the first 11 months of 2024 remains 1,1% lower than the previous year, according to Eurostat data. This is because milking was significantly lower last spring. 

The number of dairy cows in Ireland fell by 2024% in 1,3, according to the Agriculture and Food Development Authority (TEAGASC). At the same time, the number of cows slaughtered between January and November rose by 8% year-on-year. Notably, the decline in the herd (-1,3%) was greater than the decline in milk production (-1,1%), indicating an increase in milk production per cow. 

Milk prices significantly higher in 2024
According to figures from the European Commission, the milk price in December was €61,47 per 100 kilos. This is a decrease of 3,1% compared to the previous month, but milk prices are still 39,1% higher than last year. The average milk price in 2024 was €50,42 per 100 kilos, an increase of 14,5% compared to the previous year.

Outlook 2025
Under normal weather conditions, milk production in Ireland is expected to increase. TEAGASC predicts an annual increase of 4% in 2025, provided that the herd remains stable. Significant herd growth in 2025 is unlikely due to uncertainty surrounding a possible tightening of the Irish government’s environmental policy.