Raw milk production cost climbs to 29.92 TL

November 3, 2026 · Tarım Pusulası

According to TÜSEDAD data, the production cost of raw milk rose to 29.92 TL in October, widening the gap with the reference price of 24.30 TL to 5.62 TL. Citing rising feed prices as a burden on producers, the association called for an urgent revision of the recommended price.

Feed Costs Hit Raw Milk Production

The All Cattle Breeders Association (TÜSEDAD) announced that the production cost of one liter of hot raw milk reached 29.92 TL in the October 2026 period. According to data shared by the association, roughage prices increased by approximately 6% and concentrate feed prices by 4% in the relevant month. As a direct reflection of these input cost increases, the raw milk cost increased by 1.98% compared to the previous month. The per-liter cost, which was 29.34 TL in September, continued its upward trend under the pressure of feed expenses.

Gap Between Reference Price and Production Cost

The raw milk reference price, implemented by the National Milk Council (USK) since May 2026, stands at 24.30 TL/liter. According to TÜSEDAD data, while the production cost, which was 25.37 TL in the January 2026 period, has rapidly increased over time, the current reference price remains 5.62 TL behind the actual cost. The association's management stated that USK's failure to update the recommended price, despite calls made in September and October, has put producers in a difficult position. The statement requested that the risks of energy, fuel, and imported feed for the next three months be taken into account when setting the price.

Herd Reduction and Supply Warning

The widening gap between the costs borne by producers and market sales prices brings significant structural risks to the livestock sector. TÜSEDAD emphasized that if producers cannot cover their increasing expenses, the culling of breeding animals may begin, and the risk of herd reduction will intensify. It was noted that this negative scenario directly threatens Turkey's medium and long-term milk and red meat supply balance. Sector representatives stated that a transparent and protective pricing policy reflecting market realities must be urgently implemented for a sustainable production chain.

Cost Calculation Model for 100 Head Operation

The cost table announced by TÜSEDAD was prepared based on a model Holstein breed operation with a capacity of 100 lactating cows, yielding 30 liters per animal per day. The calculation considered not only roughage and concentrate feed expenses but also electricity, diesel, labor, animal insurance, and general maintenance depreciation. The association reported that the 29.92 TL/liter cost determined for October represents the actual expenditures in the field. In this context, it was requested that the reference price be urgently updated and revised in favor of the producer for their sustainability.

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