Imports and exports higher in 2014

Imports during 2014 are 26% more than during 2013. Some 49 800 tonnes of dairy products were imported compared to 39 490 tonnes in 2013. Imports during December 2014 were less than during November 2014, mainly as less milk powder was imported. During 2014, 195 500 tonnes of dairy was exported, 3,5% more than during 2013.

Converting imports and exports to a milk equivalent basis, net exports during 2014 of 178 million litres was 34% less than during 2013. The decrease was caused by higher imports while exports on a milk equivalent basis only increased marginally. According to MPO economist Dr Koos Coetzee, the 2014 import and export statistics clearly indicate that local production has not increased sufficiently to supply the local and export markets.