WMP imports in September reached just over 9500 tonnes, which is 63% lower than the 25,725 tonnes imported in September 2013 and also well below September 2012 levels.
For the year to September, import volumes are 56% above the same period last year. Heavy volumes imported early in the year means that the current year to September volumes are only 2% lower than the volume imported for the full 2013 year.
China's WMP imports have typically come back mid-year as its major supplier New Zealand enters its seasonal low of milk production and China's own domestic milk production peaks hence reducing its import requirements.
The final three months of the calendar year have accounted for 15 – 37% of the total WMP volumes imported per year in the past five years. This year portion purchased in the later part of the season is likely to be considerably lower than normal as demand for imports remains lacklustre.
