Australian Barley Prices Drop Amid New-Crop Volume Increase

The Australian barley market is experiencing a slight drop in prices due to new-crop volume entering the northern market. The price of barley has decreased by up to $10 per tonne, while wheat values have only dropped by a dollar or two.

According to data from Grain Central, the price of Downs barley is currently at $412 per tonne for prompt delivery and $415 per tonne for January delivery. In contrast, Mel barley has dropped to $308 per tonne for prompt delivery and $318 per tonne for January delivery.

The dry weather in the north has accelerated the ripening of cereal crops, resulting in a faster-than-expected harvest. Growers are reporting good quality and yields of 2.5-3 tonnes per hectare.