World: Malting barley prices slightly down as European countries start harvesting

The world malting barley prices have slightly decreased as of early July as compared to the previous month.

According to the industry observers, the decrease can be explained by two major factors: other grain markets are now lower and this has stopped pushing the barley prices up; and the outlook for the barley crop is becoming more secure as the most important European barley-producing countries are near or starting their harvest, so supply is now closer at hand.

Canada’s malting barley prices are reported lower as buyers’ expectations continue to be well below the current price offers.

Argentina’s farmers and traders had to reduce prices to remain competitive with other regions.

Australia’s prices haven’t shown much decrease as this origin is already the world’s most competitive.

France’s prices have probably declined most of all due to the feed barley being in fierce competition with the Black Sea suppliers, which has also brought the malting barley values down, however, maintaining a reasonable malting premium.