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Aussie milk declines at Fonterra

New Zealand dairy goods producer Fonterra reported a 3.4 per cent dip in milk production for November as its Australian output continues to decline.

The 3.4 per cent drop is based on comparing production to the same month in 2018.

Challenging farm conditions continue to affect milk production, according to Fonterra, which predicted its cow numbers to fall further.

The latest production figures are part of a downward trend.

Production for the 12 months to November in Australia was down 6.7 per cent on the previous period.

Demand for infant formula and skim milk powder from Australia also dropped over the last 12 months.

Exports from the country were down 11.5 per cent for November on the same month in 2018.

The situation was not as bleak for Fonterra’s other regions.

Production was up in Europe and the US, and exports from Europe and New Zealand have increased over the last 12 months.

Imports into China continue to grow, up 11.4 per cent for the 12 months to November.

Demand for whole milk powder and fluid milk products was largely responsible.

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