Malta Dairy Products Ltd (MDP), the producer of Benna milk, has announced an increase in the prices of several of its products, saying the move is necessary to safeguard the long-term sustainability and reliability of Malta's fresh milk supply.

The largest rise affects one-litre packets of whole milk, which have gone up by 7c to €1.23.

In a statement, MDP said the fresh dairy sector continues to face heavy cost pressures, despite government support measures such as stable energy prices and subsidies on animal feed. The company pointed to higher feed costs, rising prices for ingredients and packaging, increased transport expenses, and ongoing investment in quality and production reliability as key factors behind the decision.

MDP said it absorbed a significant portion of last year's rising costs but that further price adjustments were unavoidable if the sector is to remain stable and sustainable.

The company has been gradually increasing prices over recent years, citing higher operating costs, supply chain disruptions and the need to invest in a new milk production facility. In 2018, a one-litre packet of whole milk retailed for 86c.

The prices increases are as follows: