France: Spring malting barley prices increase on worries over planting progress

France�s feed barley prices, like those of soft wheat, have shown little movement during the last week. A small increase in port charges should nevertheless be noted, La Depeche said on April 4.

Winter malting barley values have only changed slightly but spring barley is higher, as industry players are worried by the planting progress which is smaller than expected (only 20% versus the expected 30%). Spring malting barley prices are thus returning to �normal� levels.

Depending on the region, planting has been completed at 30% to 100% of the planned areas. Constant rains and flooding in some areas are interfering with the field works.