Ukraine increasing its presence in China’s market

According to statistics, Australia exported 3.8 MMT of barley in July-June 2018/19, the least since MY 2008/09. Its exports were down 48% from a year ago. This slump resulted from both a second consecutive dry season and another season of high barley prices in the country.

The key buyer of Australian barley is China, which purchased just 2.5 MMT for the entire season (5.7 MMT in the previous season).

As for perspectives of 2019/20 season, the market continues to keep an eye on weather conditions and soil drought developments in Australia. The export price spread between Australian and other origins remains substantial in view of current adverse weather conditions in the country, reports UkrAgroConsult.

Another shortfall in the Australian barley crop will make China increase imports of this commodity from Australia’s competitors such as Ukraine, the EU and Canada. These countries’ exportable barley supplies in 2019 are expected to be higher than last year.

Thus, the Chinese buyer will be able to choose a decent supplier.