World: Global malting barley prices continue on downward trend

The direction for global malting barley prices remains down, with little sign of any change in the short term as a recovery in demand seems unlikely, RMI Analytics said in their early February report.

A large malt premium remains in France for crop 2023, as compared to other origins, although current crop 2024 prices indicate a sharp shift lower.

The barley market is searching for a price floor, with no sign a bottom has been reached (yet), the analysts believe. France is the most competitive origin for feed/FAQ barley (as evidenced by recent tender activity). Canada is moving to become more competitive in world markets, driven by weak exports and a softening domestic market. Australia and Argentina are working to stay as close to Frenc values as possible. All with a very limited presence of demand.

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