World: Bearish trend weighing on global barley prices

A widespread bearish trend is permeating global grain prices and as a result is weighing on barley prices, RMI Analytics said in their latest report.

Universally, the market is stuck in a very quiet trading environment, as farmers are not active sellers (many busy planting barley in Europe) and buyers are watching the down-trend with a hope for a continuation in the bearish direction (downward).

With a big barley crop to sell, Australia remains the most competitive global origin, while Argentina prices are steady due to the drought-impacted 2022 crop. France’s conditions have improved lately which is bringing sellers back into the market.

The barley market decline from the price peak in 2022 continues, but not without a constant presence of price volatility. Over the past two weeks, prices have moved higher (e.g. France) on dryness concerns, only to reverse dramatically this week as much-needed rain arrived.

France remains the main price setter for global trade, and prices are currently weaker (especially for feed barley). Competition for planted area in 2023 requires barley prices to remain attractive to farmers, slightly easier today as wheat prices are drifting lower.

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