Demand in the first half was firm as the lockdown was eased and the auction system paved the way for a more stable local currency. Volumes for Liquid Milks, Foods and Beverages were up 22%, 52% and 87% respectively. The supply side was hampered by COVID-19 induced disruptions to the supply chain as well as a 2% fall in national milk production. Below average rainfall seasons before 2020/21 led to a shortage of stock feed which naturally pushed up the price; the high price meant dairy farmers could ...