EU & UK: Barley production forecast slightly down at 58.58 mln tonnes

In crop 2023, the EU-27 and UK barley production forecast is down slightly, at 58.58 mln tonnes. The drop is linked to lower yield expectations in Spain, which has missed most of the rain falling across Europe and could lead to further Spanish barley imports in 2023/24, RMI Analytics said in their latest report.

Overall, the weather remains mostly favourable for crop development, with good moisture and moderate temperatures aiding to the positive situation that exists across most of Europe.

Crop ratings in France remain very positive with winter barley at 92% good/excellent and spring barley at 95%. In both cases the crop ratings are 3-5% better than a year ago.

Farmers are concerned about the dramatic price drop while input and equipment costs remain high, making crop 2023 financial returns a significant challenge.

Russian spring barley planting is reported at 14%, slightly ahead of schedule but recent heavy rains may cause delays to planting progress.

Ukrainian farmers have planted over 700 thousand ha of spring crops, with about 60% represented by barley, it is reported.

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