Browse Data and Analysis

China's demand for imported forages, mainly alfalfa hay, has been affected by weak market demand for dairy products and the falling price of fresh milk. Although dairy consumption remained stable, oversupply of milk became a challenge due to the excessive investment in dairy farming over the last few years.

In 2021, Chinese imports of alfalfa pellets hit record levels of 52,254 metric tons (MT) and $13.66 million by value, increases of 62 percent and 70 percent respectively. The market is dominated by Spanish-origin pellets.

As the 14th largest export destination, the United Kingdom (UK) has been an important and growing market for U.S. agricultural products. Shared heritage and cultural ties have continued to bolster U.S.-UK trade. The United States is the second largest UK agricultural supplier, behind the European Union (EU). The market presents many opportunities for intermediate and consumer-oriented products.

On November 16, 2021, China Animal Agricultural Association (CAAA) proposed group standards for Alfalfa Meal Quality Classification and Timothy Hay Quality Grade. The standards were published for public feedback and will take effect after revision based on feedback received.

Timothy hay was among a number of U.S. agricultural products that received new or expanded access under the U.S.-China Economic and Trade Agreement, which was signed on January 15, 2020.

Post anticipates a larger supply for MY2020/21, as a wet spring boosted fodder yields in non-irrigated land. Spanish fodder continues consolidating its presence in Asian markets.

The prolonged and ongoing drought in Northern Europe and the Baltics is significantly affecting arable crop and animal feed production in the EU.

Italy is suffering from a severe summer drought caused by low rainfall (80 percent below average in the first half of 2017) and exceptionally high temperatures for most of the year.

U.S. alfalfa exports to China continue to climb, reaching 1.29 million metric tons (worth $417 million) in 2016.

The European Commission is soliciting stakeholder comments in a final public consultation on draft Product Environmental Footprint Category Rules for feed, food and drink products.

Spain’s dried fodder production forecast for MY 2015/16 is expected to reach 1.5 million MT.

EU farmers are expecting a sizeable grain crop of 292 million metric tons in marketing year 2013/14.