Canada & USA: Canadian malting and feed barley prices down dramatically

Canadian barley prices for both malting and feed barley have fallen dramatically from the significant price surge, driven by the major North American drought in 2022, RMI Analytics said in their latest report.

The price outlook for both malting and feed barley is anticipated to trend mildly upward over the next 6 months, as a slight post-harvest rebound is expected. With harvest now complete, farmer selling will be a key driver to prices.

After a sluggish start, Alberta's harvest picked up speed, nearing the fastest pace observed over the past decade, while favourable weather conditions contributed to good barley quality, and yields that exceeded earlier expectations. In Saskatchewan a bit more quality variability is reported, but still an overall fair result is in place.

In the US, exceptional yields are reported, but drought conditions pushed protein levels higher in places. For irrigated areas, quality is average, with minor sprouting noted in parts of Montana. Overall, North America has yielded favourable results.