Brazilian barley consolidates historic harvest

The barley harvest in Brazil has already begun, and projections indicate a record crop in 2025, driven by favorable weather, improved genetics, and advancements in management. According to the Department of Rural Economy (Deral), production is expected to reach 423 thousand tons, a 43% increase from the 296 thousand tons harvested in 2024. The cultivated area also grew by 20%, reaching 96.9 thousand hectares, with an average productivity of 4,600 kg per hectare, equivalent to 35% of the national malt production. According to Alesandro Pagnoncelli, district commercial manager of IHARA, the advancement of the crop represents an achievement for agribusiness. He emphasizes that barley has become a strategic and profitable alternative in diversified systems, with high potential for return and agronomic sustainability. However, the control of ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum) remains one of the main challenges, potentially causing significant productivity losses and compromising the quality ...