Uruguay dairy exports rise 2% as milk powder volumes offset lower prices

Uruguay dairy exports ended the first half of 2026 with modest growth, as higher shipments of whole milk powder helped offset weaker international prices.

Exports of dairy products totaled $441 million FOB between January and June, up 2% from the same period in 2025, according to a monthly report by Uruguay’s National Milk Institute, known as Inale, based on data from the National Customs Directorate.

Whole milk powder, the dairy industry’s main export product, remained the key driver of the sector’s performance. Uruguay exported 82,027 tonnes of whole milk powder in the first half, a 15% year-on-year increase. Revenue from those shipments reached $299 million, up 5% from the same period last year.

However, the average export price for whole milk powder fell 8% to $3,718 per tonne, reflecting a less favorable international price environment.

Performance across other dairy products was mixed. Skim milk powder exports totaled 7,392 tonnes, down 9% in volume, while export revenue fell 4% to $24 million. Unlike whole milk powder, the average export price for skim milk powder rose 5% to $3,360 per tonne.

Cheese and butter show mixed results

Cheese exports also declined in the first half. Shipments fell 9% in volume to 8,301 tonnes, while revenue dropped 8% to $41 million. The average export price was nearly unchanged, rising just 1% year over year to $5,251 per tonne.

Butter posted the strongest volume growth among the main dairy products. Exports rose 16% to 6,148 tonnes, while export revenue increased 2% to $35 million. Still, the average price fell 12% to $5,698 per tonne.

The figures show that, despite pressure from lower international prices, higher export volumes allowed Uruguay’s dairy sector to maintain growth in the first half of the year. Whole milk powder again served as the main support for Uruguay dairy exports, helping compensate for weaker prices and allowing the industry to close the semester with higher revenue.

For exporters, processors and logistics operators, the results point to a market in which volume gains remain essential to sustaining revenue. The performance of whole milk powder will continue to shape Uruguay dairy exports in the coming months, particularly if global prices remain under pressure.

Source: Ámbito 

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