Argentina: Barley harvest wrapped up with very positive yields, production estimate remains at 5.2 mln tonnes

Harvest has wrapped up in Argentina under mostly good conditions. The result is very positive for yields and the production estimate remains at 5.2 mln tonnes, RMI Analytics reported earlier this month.

Quality results are generally good with some low test weights and sizings (calibration) reported, mainly in southwest Buenos Aires Province due to dryness and high temperatures. Rain events during harvest occurred, but no major issues are reported and no malting challenges expected.

Export licenses booked in crop 2021 are on a faster pace than in the year prior, at the same point in time. A fast pace of shipments execution will draw down stocks quickly, a big plus from a farmer perspective.

Reports indicate China has already booked a new trade (60 thousand tonnes, FAQ) in early 2022, validating the fact that open demand from China continues to exist in the market. The trade has been buying barley from farmers which is moving prices lower.