World: World barley crop 2016 slightly below 2015 volume, international trade expected to drop by up to 4 mln tonnes

The world barley crop in 2016 is just below the previous year’s figure of 148.7 mln tonnes, H. M. Gauger GmbH analysts said in their first report this year.

Australian production is estimated to reach 12.0 – 12.5 mln tonnes.

International trade will probably drop by 3 – 4 mln tonnes, as China and Saudi Arabia have strongly reduced their purchases to-date. However, large crops in West and East Europe, partly lower quality and strong winter conditions have led to larger domestic consumption, specifically feeding on farm.

Price levels on world and domestic markets will continue to follow other grains, as supplies of alternative grains and other feedstuffs are plentiful, the analysts said.

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