In a move reflecting cautious optimism in the face of persistent global uncertainty, Dairygold Co-Operative Society Limited has confirmed that its April 2025 milk price will remain unchanged from March levels. The cooperative has set a base price of 50c/L (including VAT) for milk at standard constituents (3.3% protein and 3.6% butterfat). When adjusted for average milk solids supplied in April, the effective farmgate price reaches 54.6c/L, inclusive of quality and sustainability bonuses totaling 1.4714c/L.

“Global milk production is steady, but buyer caution persists due to potential tariff threats,” a Dairygold spokesperson said. “This continues to influence market dynamics.”

This announcement marks continuity in Dairygold’s pricing policy, which has seen consistent support to its farmer-members since the start of the year. In January 2025, qualifying suppliers received a maximum attainable price of 57.36c/L—factoring in a 7.36c/L early calving bonus. Additionally, a 0.5c/L year-end top-up for 2024 milk supplies was approved earlier this year.

🧮 Milk Price Comparison: April 2025

The table below compares Dairygold’s April pricing with other Irish co-operatives, based on the most recently available data. All prices are expressed in euro cents per litre (c/L) and refer to standard constituents (unless otherwise noted).

Note: Prices include VAT unless otherwise indicated. Bonus eligibility varies by cooperative and contract terms.

📈 Market Context: Global Dairy Signals Remain Mixed

The April 2025 milk pricing decisions come amid a volatile but slightly improving global market environment. According to the Global Dairy Trade (GDT) auction in early May, the index rose by 4.6%, with whole milk powder (WMP) prices surging 6.2% to US$4,374/MT—the highest since April 2022. The upturn is encouraging, though tempered by regional and political uncertainties.

Key market dynamics:

• EU milk supply fell by 1.2% YoY in February 2025, with Ireland bucking the trend with growth.

• US milk production is forecast to rise 0.7% in 2025, while the EU’s overall growth is pegged at just 0.2%, with Bluetongue virus outbreaks in France and Belgium posing risks.

• Chinese import demand remains muted amid economic recalibration and stockpile overhangs.

🧭 Outlook: Price Floor Holding, But Caution Persists

Despite supportive international price signals, Irish cooperatives appear aligned in adopting a conservative pricing strategy for Q2 2025. With the flush season underway and weather conditions impacting feed and production costs, farmer organisations like the ICMSA are pressing for base prices above 50c/L to ensure viability.

The Concerned Dairygold Shareholders Committee has similarly advocated for no price cuts in 2025, citing elevated cost structures and long-term sustainability concerns.

🧾 Dairy Dimension Analysis

Dairygold’s price retention for April 2025 reflects a pragmatic balance: supporting farm incomes while waiting for clearer global signals. Although Tirlán and Kerry are offering slightly higher nominal prices, Dairygold’s transparent sustainability-linked payouts and past seasonal bonuses help it remain competitive.

As the industry awaits May 2025 pricing announcements, analysts expect minor adjustments at best—likely within a narrow band of current levels—unless a sustained rise in global demand reshapes the trade outlook.

✍️ Key Takeaways:

• Dairygold holds April price at 50c/L, with a 54.6c/L average payout.
• Global market sentiment improving, but buyer caution and weather risks persist.
• Price compression evident at Lakeland and Carbery; Tirlán and Kerry offer stable premiums.
• Farmers demand price floor above 50c/L to offset inflationary pressures.