North America: Barley crops could be impacted by unfavourable weather this year

North America’s barley crops are drawing an increased concern as higher temperatures and below normal rainfall this year will potentially have an impact on the crop.

As a result of the current weather forecast, industry observers have reduced their Canada and USA barley crops forecasts due to the diminished yield potential. In Canada, farmers are currently forecast to harvest about 10.9 mln tonnes of barley whereas in the US the figure is seen at 3.3 mln tonnes (both down from the more optimistic forecasts of the previous months).

These reductions will pressure the North America barley balance sheet as ending stocks in both countries are lower this season. Canada could ship more significant quantities to the US which would diminish its participation in the global barley trade.

Mexico so far has enjoyed more favourable weather and beneficial and timely rain helped avoid the impact of extreme heat on its crops.