Arla’s conventional milk price remains unchanged in April. The organic price is reduced in England, whilst it stays the same in Denmark, Sweden and Central Europe.

Arla is holding its conventional milk price steady in April 2026, whilst the on-account price for organic milk is reduced by 2.0 €c/kg in England. In Denmark, Sweden and Central Europe, the organic milk price remains unchanged. The quarterly currency adjustment contributes a marginal positive effect.

Arla points to three factors currently driving milk price developments: global milk supply has stabilised at a high level, retail prices are adjusting in line with market developments, and commodity prices are rising globally.

Strong cheese and butter markets
Milk intake in the EU27 and the United Kingdom remained high in the early part of the first quarter. According to Arla, production in December was 5.9 per cent higher than in the same month the previous year, and processing capacity is expected to approach full utilisation in many regions as the seasonal spring production increase approaches.

Sentiment in cheese markets has strengthened since the start of 2026, as demand has outpaced supply slightly. This has drawn down stock levels, and prices for Gouda, Cheddar and Mozzarella all rose during February. Milk powder markets have stabilised following sharp price falls in late 2025, supported by increased demand and strong import activity. Most notably, butter markets have seen a significant shift in sentiment, with futures prices rising sharply as buyers have returned to the market following a period of hesitation.

By Maja Løvstrup
Photo: Arla