Global Meat Prices Reach Record Levels, Sugar Prices Drop to a Minimum
In September 2025, the global food price index showed a slight decline compared to the previous month. The main factors behind this trend were the decrease in the prices of sugar and dairy products in international markets.
This is reported by AgroReview
Dynamics of Key Food Indices
According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, the average food price index in September stood at 128.8 points, slightly lower than the revised figure for August — 129.7 points. At the same time, this level is 3.4% higher than last year’s figures.
The grain price index decreased by 0.6% compared to August. In particular, international wheat prices have fallen for the third consecutive month, attributed to weak global demand and confirmation of record harvests in leading producing countries. Global corn prices also decreased due to forecasts of high supply volumes and the temporary suspension of export duties on grains in Argentina. Regarding rice, its index fell by 0.5% due to reduced orders from the Philippines and African countries.
Prices for vegetable oils also dropped by 0.7% — the decline in palm and soybean oil prices outweighed the increase in sunflower and rapeseed oil prices.
Global Meat and Dairy Prices
While most food groups showed a decrease in prices, the FAO meat index rose by 0.7% compared to August, reaching a new historical high. Over the year, this figure increased by 6.6%. The rise in the index is primarily attributed to higher beef and lamb prices, while prices for pork and poultry remained relatively stable. The historical peak in beef prices was recorded due to significant demand in the U.S., where limited domestic supplies and favorable price differences stimulated imports.
“Beef prices have risen to a historical high due to strong demand in the U.S., where limited domestic supplies and a favorable price difference continued to stimulate imports.”
The dairy price index fell by 2.6% in September. In particular, butter prices dropped by 7% due to reduced demand for ice cream in Northern Hemisphere countries and optimistic production forecasts in Oceania. Prices for skim milk powder decreased mainly due to weakened demand from major importers and increased competition among exporters. Cheese prices saw a slight decline.
It is also worth noting the significant drop in the sugar price index — by 4.1% compared to August, marking the lowest level since March 2021. This decrease was made possible by increased sugar production in Brazil, as well as favorable harvest prospects in India and Thailand following abundant monsoon rains and expanded planting areas.