In the news affecting a dairy farmer's bottom line the fourth week of July 2026: The August Class I base milk price falls more than $2, the U.S. imposes 50% tariffs on dairy imports from Canada, fluid milk sales fall in May, and the GDT index is up 1.5%.

The U.S. is a global powerhouse on the world stage, and with 95% of the world’s consumers living outside U.S. borders, international markets are impossible to ignore.

In the news affecting a dairy producer's bottom line: The FARM Program opens comment period for version 2028, Rabobank provides an update on global dairy trade, high input cost concerns weigh on farmer sentiment, and Land O’Lakes Inc. announced an investment to expand dairy protein production in California.

May proved to be another enthusiastic month for U.S. dairy exports, with the year-over-year volume growth streak now reaching eight consecutive months as exports rose 14% in milk solids equivalent terms. All of this is despite low nonfat dry milk/skim milk powder (NDM/SMP) shipments – due to steep price comparison – reigning in what might have been a record month.

In the news related to dairy farming the first week of July 2026: The U.S. declines USMCA renewal in current form; NASS report shows corn planted acreage down 3%, soybean acreage up 5%; nominations are open for NMC’s National Dairy Quality Awards program, and World Dairy Expo cattle show entries are open too.

April was another record-breaking month for U.S. dairy product exports, with cheese setting a new monthly record, and butterfat, nonfat dry milk/skim milk powder (NDM/SMP) and low-protein whey all continuing their respective growth streaks.

In the news related to dairy farming the first week of June 2026: The dairy checkoff brings "Body by Cheese" to life for National Cheese Day, U.S. dairy calls for action on Canadian dairy trade practices, and the FARM Program kicks off its annual Excellence Awards.

Prices continue to support the ample flow of milk in the U.S. as the global marketplace wants more. In March, not only were U.S. dairy product exports up 8% from the same month a year ago, but it was the highest milk solid equivalent volume in four years.

In dairy-related news at the beginning of May 2026: The USDA is seeking nominees for the National Dairy Promotion and Research Board, May FSA interest rates hold steady, a USTR report underlines landmark wins for common name protections, and Holstein Association USA names its Star of the Breed and Herds of Excellence.

February cemented the speed at which U.S. dairy exports are moving in today’s global marketplace.