Imports and exports lower

During February 2015, 5 487 tonnes of dairy products were imported, 4% less than in February 2014 and 32% more than average imports during 2014. Total exports during February 2015 of 15 012 tonnes were 5% less than exports during February 2014,  concentrated products, milk powder, other powders, cheese and butter made up 75% of total imports on a mass basis, while liquid products (milk and yoghurt) were the major export products (56% of total exports). However, while the total mass exported exceeds the total mass imported, export and import volumes on a milk equivalent basis are practically in balance. According to MPO economist Dr Koos Coetzee, the fact that import volumes remain high in spite of higher milk production shows that milk supply and demand is barely in balance and that the market needs additional products.