The EU malting industry seems to be covered quite well, market analysts commented on January 28. There remain ample stocks of spring and winter barley in France, and unsold reserves as well in Germany. U.K. has withdrawn from export markets, their supplies may just be enough for domestic needs. Denmark already reports local problems of germination, it is feared that the Danish export surplus will be reduced when warmer temperatures affect the germinative energy in springtime. After many months of non-activity the Czech market has woken up, Czech malting barley is selling to Germany, Poland and Russia. Czech and Swedish barleys are the closest origins to Russia since the embargo on shipments from Denmark. Prices have moved little during the past two months, premiums over feed barley remain very low. Recent good demand for feed barley in Rouen drove Esterel prices up to EUR 111,- / 112,-, basis July, rendu seaport. A major change of markets is not expected.

Barley acreage in the EU will not change dramatically. IGC forecasts a total acreage of 12.9 million ha versus 13.2 million ha in 2004. As per long-term trend yields should turn out less good than in 2004, crop forecasts are 57-58 million tonnes.

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