- Skim Milk Powder (SMP) prices firmed in Q1 2026 as export demand improved, nearby availability tightened, and buyers covered short-term needs in Asia, Europe, and North America.
- Feedstock pressure was linked to raw milk allocation, drying costs, packaging, freight, and energy. The Iran war and Strait of Hormuz disruption affected SMP indirectly through shipping and fuel-related costs.
- Downstream demand from infant nutrition, bakery, confectionery, dairy blends, foodservice, and recombined milk stayed steady, with buyers avoiding heavy restocking.
In Q1 2026, SMP markets strengthened across major regions, though the drivers varied. Asia saw firmer sentiment as Oceania export availability tightened and North Asian buying supported nearby shipments, while Southeast Asian buyers remained active but selective. Europe moved upward as sellers reported stronger routine business and buyers focused on prompt coverage, with production meeting current demand but not creating excess supply. North America also firmed as nonfat dry milk availability stayed tight in parts of the quarter, despite steady milk production, because processors directed milk solids toward higher-protein dairy products. The Iran war did not directly affect raw milk supply, but it raised freight, fuel, drying, and packaging risks. Chemical container exports from the US Gulf Coast rose 12.0% in March, while 20.0% surge capacity was available for disruptions, showing broader logistics stress.