Significant milk production growth in the US and New Zealand

Milk production in the 24 major U.S. dairy states reached 8,38 million tons in June, a 3,37% increase year-over-year. This growth is due to both a growing number of dairy cows and higher milk production per cow. Average milk production increased 1,64% year-over-year to 927,6 kg per cow. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) counted 9,03 million dairy cows, an increase of 1,7% year-over-year and 0,03% month-over-month.

The increase was primarily driven by higher volumes in Texas (+9,5% year-on-year to 681.749 tons), New York (+2% to 620.968 tons), Idaho (+9,7% to 694.904 tons), and California (+2,7% to 1,56 million tons). In Wisconsin, production remained virtually stable (+0,3% to 1,23 million tons).

Over the first half of the year, US milk production totaled 50,28 million tons, a 1,12% increase compared to the same period last year. While the past four months showed strong growth, the increase was partially tempered by the February leap day. Cumulative growth is now well above the USDA forecast of an annual increase of 0,76% through 2025.

New Zealand
The New Zealand dairy sector has started the 2025/26 season, which begins in June, with record-high production. In June 2025, milk production reached a record 261.000 tons, a 14,5% increase compared to June 2024 (228.000 tons). The increase is primarily attributed to exceptionally favorable weather conditions, combined with a strong milk price, which is boosting production.

The growth in milk solids is even stronger. In June, New Zealand produced 23.956.000 kilos of milk solids, a 17,8% increase compared to June 2024. This also marks a new record: the previous highest level was reached in June 2023 and 2022, with 20.784.000 kilos (+15,3%) and 20.872.000 kilos (+14,8%), respectively. Whether this significant increase can be sustained in the coming months remains to be seen. Significant percentage spikes at the beginning or end of the season are common in New Zealand.