Global processors are willing to pay more for malting barley

World prices for malting barley have surpassed previous records and are on a gradual increase, according to GrainTrade and RMI Analytics. Canadian barley is particularly expensive due to crop damage, leading to a possible need for imports. Meanwhile, prices in other countries are also increasing, with the premium for brewing quality also rising while feed barley prices have dropped slightly. Market activity has eased as some buyers, including China, have reduced purchases due to high prices. The main suppliers for China are France and Argentina, while Australia is receiving more inquiries for high-quality, reasonably priced barley. In Ukraine, the premium for malting barley over feed barley is expected to increase for high-quality grain. Ukraine has exported 3.7 million tons of its planned 5 million tons of barley for the 2021/22 marketing year, increasing competition for high-quality barley. Experts do not anticipate a decline in barley prices in the near future due to the growing deficit.