Imports higher in January

During January 2015, 6 364 tonnes of dairy were imported, 113% more than in January 2014 and 53% more than average imports during 2014. Total exports during January 2015 of 14 476 tonnes were 10% less than exports during January 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) the major exported products (56% of total exports).

Thus, 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 despite higher milk production shows that milk supply and demand is barely in balance and that the market requires additional products.