EU: At the end of April barley markets exploded, and most maltsters retired from selling

During the month of April domestic prices inched up to EUR 385,- for delivery 2008, CPT breweries. Export prices of the EU, Canada and Australia were close in the range of EUR 375,- to 385,- FOB in bulk in container, at the end of the month business was done at EUR 420,-.

Japan, Thailand, Vietnam and African groups purchased large quantities during the month, Brazil bought additional needs for this calendar year. Carlsberg commenced negotiations. Most large brewery groups purchased parts of their demand. There was a mixture of contracts, fixed malt prices for a one year contract, LTA�s with fixed malting margins, but open barley and energy prices, to name a few.

Warning: These prices are not in force at present, at the end of April barley markets exploded, and most maltsters retired from selling, until weather, barley crop prospects and barley price levels become clearer and safer again. It is doubted that malt prices will return to former levels.