New Zealand dairy farmers have significantly reduced their debt levels, repaying over NZ$1.5 billion in the last 12 months despite a challenging year marked by reduced milk payouts and rising input costs. This marks a significant shift in financial behavior within the sector, emphasizing risk mitigation amid global price volatility. According to Rabobank’s latest agribusiness report, the current total sector debt stands at NZ$38.1 billion, down from NZ$39.6 billion in June 2024. This is the largest year-on-year drop since 2010.
his equates to the average dairy farmer reducing their debt – from around $22/kgMS in 2016 to $18.40/kgMS in 2025.
Fonterra is forecasting a final milk price of $10/kgMS for last season. It’s also forecasting a record opening milk price of $10/kgMS for the new season, which started June 1. A $10/kgMS milk price for last season equates to around $15 billion into the New Zealand economy. Apart from paying down debt, dairy farmers are also looking at investing in technology and how it can be used to improve their businesses.
The repayment trend is attributed to improved cost management, conservative capital expenditure, and farmer focus on financial sustainability over expansion. Notably, lower on-farm investments, delayed machinery upgrades, and limited herd expansions contributed to the repayment capacity. Banks also reported reduced lending appetite in the face of softening dairy commodity prices and cautious farmer sentiment. This trend aligns with declining farm sales and a broader structural consolidation in the NZ dairy landscape.
Industry Insight:
This debt reduction trend highlights a clear shift from expansion to consolidation, mirroring global dairy sentiments. Indian cooperatives and private dairies must also track debt cycles, especially as input costs and price pressures rise. Conservative financial planning and operational efficiency will be crucial for long-term competitiveness.
Source : DAirynews7x7 July 9th 2025 Rural News Group