Australia: Barley crop forecast up on increased planted area despite dryness concerns

No meaningful rain has arrived across most key barley regions in Australia, adding to the level of dryness concern. Still, RMI Analytics’ barley production forecast is raised slightly (+0.2 mln tonnes) to 12.4 mln tonnes, on increased planted barley area through gains at the expense of canola.

Planting continues under dry conditions with rain forecast for June.

Total Australian barley exports have gotten off to a very strong start in 2025 and ahead of 2024 levels. China leads export market share at 69.5% through March’25, but still trails the 75.3% average of 2024. Other notable destinations for malting barley include Peru, Ecuador, and Vietnam. These strong exports, plus the increased domestic feed demand is raising prices under the current dryness concerns.