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March-to-Date (NMPF) NEXT, assisted export sales surpass 30 million pounds.

The U.S. dairy industry has achieved a significant milestone in March by surpassing 30 million pounds in export sales. This achievement was facilitated through the National Milk Producers Federation‘s (NMPF) NEXT assistance program. The program, designed to bolster U.S. dairy exports, has been instrumental in reaching this new level of international sales. This milestone highlights the ongoing growth in American dairy exports.

The growth in exports is attributed to several key factors, including increased demand for U.S. dairy products in international markets. The NEXT program has played a vital role in connecting American producers with overseas buyers, streamlining the process of exporting dairy goods.

According to industry analysts, the success of the program underscores the competitiveness of U.S. dairy products on a global scale. The NMPF continues to focus on expanding its reach, aiming to further increase the volume of exports in the coming months.

As of now, the program has been particularly successful in penetrating markets in Asia and Europe, where there is a growing demand for high-quality dairy products. This trend is expected to continue, with the NMPF actively seeking new opportunities for growth.

U.S. dairy exports rise on strong global demand, with cheese, whey and milk powder. This trend highlights the increasing prominence of the U.S. dairy industry in global markets.

The U.S. Dairy Export Council reports in recent months, the United States has seen a notable increase in dairy exports, particularly in cheese, whey, and milk powder. This growth is largely attributed to rising global demand, which has opened up new opportunities for American dairy producers.

As of March 2026, U.S. cheese exports have grown substantially, with key markets including countries in Asia and Latin America. The demand for whey products, often used in food processing and health supplements, has also contributed to this upward trend.

The U.S. dairy industry has been adapting to meet these demands, focusing on expanding production capabilities and enhancing supply chain efficiencies. This strategic shift is aimed at maintaining the momentum gained in these international markets.

Industry experts note that the competitive pricing and high-quality standards of U.S. dairy products have played a significant role in capturing market share abroad. This is especially true in regions where the preference for quality dairy products is on the rise.

The industry continues to emphasize trade policy and market access as essential pillars for maintaining momentum. Ongoing efforts aim to reduce trade barriers, strengthen partnerships and enhance the global competitiveness of U.S. dairy products.

Market Impact
The increase in exports is not only beneficial for producers but also positively impacts related sectors, such as logistics and transportation, which are integral to the export process.

Looking forward, the sustained demand for U.S. dairy products is expected to encourage further investments in the sector, bolstering its global standing and economic contribution.

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has committed to purchasing up to $263 million in dairy and agricultural products. This initiative falls under Section 32 of the Agriculture Act of 1935 and is intended to bolster nutrition assistance programs and food banks across the nation. USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins highlighted that this effort aims to stabilize farm income and protect rural jobs by converting agricultural harvests into meals.

The breakdown of the purchases includes $75 million for butter, $32.5 million for cheddar cheese and cheese products, $10 million for Swiss cheese, and $20.5 million for fresh fluid milk. Additionally, $10 million will be spent on ultra-high temperature milk. These products will be essential in supporting food banks and nutrition programs.

Beyond dairy, the USDA’s purchase plan covers a variety of agricultural products such as chickpeas, dried beans, fresh pears, lentils, pecans, split peas, and walnuts, with individual allocations ranging from $10 million to $25 million. Secretary Rollins emphasized the importance of these purchases in sustaining the agricultural economy and reinforcing the food supply chain.

The USDA’s action is designed to inject critical dollars into local economies while ensuring that American families have access to nutritious food. By targeting a wide range of products, the USDA seeks to provide comprehensive support to both producers and consumers during challenging economic times.