In episode 289 of the Kite Podcast, Chris Walkland opens with his usual milk market report. Host Ben Eagle is joined by Erik Elgersma, director and founder of Strategic Analyses Services based in the Netherlands, along with podcast producer Becki Reay. Together, the group delve into how global politics, rising geopolitical tensions and the ongoing conflict in the Middle East are shaping agriculture, inflation and, crucially, the dairy markets. They explore how current events are influencing everything from fuel and fertiliser prices to packaging costs and consumer behaviour. Erik provides a clear global overview of the conflict’s ripple effects across energy markets and inflation. With pressures mounting across supply chains and consumers becoming more cost conscious, the team discuss both the short and long term implications for farmers, processors and the wider food sector.