Czech dairy farmers warn of crisis as milk prices plunge

Milk prices in the Czech Republic fell 11.4% year‑on‑year, with the average price of quality‑grade milk dropping to 11.39 CZK per litre – some retailers now sell it for less than 10 CZK. Farmers say the low procurement prices, combined with high production costs for energy, feed and labour, threaten the viability of many dairy farms. They warn that continued pressure could force farms to cut production or close, increasing dependence on imports.

The sector is calling on the European Commission to activate emergency market measures, mobilise agricultural crisis reserves, and support private storage of dairy products. The Ministry of Agriculture is considering a 5‑billion‑CZK increase in national support and faster payouts of existing subsidies, but budget constraints remain a concern.