Saudi Arabia to import more barley, corn

Brazil, Uruguay and Bulgaria. Local wheat production is expected to reach 1.1 million tonnes as the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture (MEWA) has incentivized production with a procurement price of 1,750 SAR ($467) per tonne, the FAS said. “This pricing strategy aims to shift the farmer’s focus away from water intensive alfalfa hay, which has historically offered higher profitability,” the FAS said. Barley imports also are expected to increase from 1.9 million tonnes in 2024-25 to 4.2 million tonnes in 2025-26. “Imported barley in Saudi Arabia is used exclusively for animal feed, and a small quantity is used for brewing nonalcoholic beer,” the FAS said. “The increase in global barley supply has led to lower international prices, which, in turn, have stimulated barley demand in Saudi Arabia and opportunistic purchasing.” Demand also has increased due to new livestock programs aimed at strengthening food security. Top barley suppliers include Argentina, Russia, Romania, ...