Barley Market Outlook
According to the report by Expert Market Research (EMR), the global barley market size achieved a volume of nearly 1,80,139.69 thousand metric tons in 2024. Driven by the increasing demand for barley in the food, beverage, and animal feed industries, the market is anticipated to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.30% from 2025 to 2033. This growth is largely attributed to the rising demand for barley-based products, the increasing use of barley in brewing and animal feed production, and the crop’s resilience in diverse growing conditions.
Barley, a cereal grain that is among the oldest cultivated crops in the world, plays a crucial role in various industries, particularly in the production of malt for brewing and in animal feed. Its versatility as a food ingredient, combined with its agricultural adaptability and ability to thrive in different climatic conditions, has made it a staple crop worldwide. Additionally, barley is used in the production of a wide range of products, including food, beverages, animal feed, and biofuels, which has driven its global demand in recent years.
Market Drivers
The growth of the global barley market can be attributed to several key drivers. One of the most significant factors is the increasing demand for barley in the brewing industry. Barley is a critical ingredient in the production of malt, which is used in brewing beer and other alcoholic beverages. The global beer market continues to grow, driven by the rising popularity of craft beer and the increasing consumption of beer in emerging markets. As a result, the demand for barley, particularly malting barley, has been consistently strong, especially in regions such as Europe, North America, and Asia-Pacific.
Furthermore, barley’s nutritional value as a food ingredient has contributed to its growing use in various products, including breakfast cereals, snacks, and baked goods. Barley is a rich source of dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it an attractive option for health-conscious consumers. As the demand for healthy, whole grain-based foods continues to rise, barley’s role in the food industry is becoming more prominent. The increasing awareness of the health benefits associated with barley, such as improved digestion and heart health, has further fueled its demand.
Another significant driver is the increasing use of barley in animal feed. Barley is an important source of energy and protein for livestock, particularly in the production of feed for cattle, poultry, and pigs. With the growing demand for meat and dairy products globally, the need for animal feed has surged, thereby driving the demand for barley as a key feed ingredient. Barley’s high energy content and digestibility make it an ideal component in animal nutrition, further cementing its position in the global agricultural sector.
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Barley for Brewing and Malting
The brewing industry remains one of the primary consumers of barley market, particularly in the form of malt. Barley is one of the most important raw materials for beer production, and its demand is largely driven by the growth of the global beer market. The popularity of craft beer, in particular, has led to increased demand for specialty malts, which are made from high-quality barley varieties. As consumers continue to experiment with new flavors and styles of beer, the demand for premium malting barley varieties has grown.
Moreover, the growing consumption of beer in emerging markets, especially in Asia and Africa, is boosting the global demand for barley market. Countries such as China, India, and Brazil are witnessing a rise in beer consumption due to urbanization, increased disposable incomes, and a shift in drinking preferences. This trend is expected to further drive the demand for barley in these regions, where the consumption of beer is still below global averages.
In addition to beer, barley is also used in the production of other alcoholic beverages, such as whiskey, vodka, and certain types of spirits. This further expands the market for barley, as these beverages are gaining popularity worldwide. The increasing preference for high-quality, craft alcoholic drinks is expected to continue supporting the demand for barley in the coming years.
Barley for Animal Feed
Barley is also a critical ingredient in the animal feed industry, particularly for livestock and poultry. The growing global demand for meat, milk, and eggs has led to an increase in the production of animal feed, with barley serving as a key source of energy and protein. Barley’s digestibility and nutritional profile make it an excellent choice for feeding various types of livestock, including cattle, poultry, and pigs.
The rising demand for meat and dairy products, particularly in emerging markets such as China, India, and Latin America, is expected to continue fueling the growth of the animal feed sector. As the global population increases and diets shift towards more protein-rich foods, the demand for high-quality animal feed, including barley-based feed, is likely to rise. The livestock sector’s reliance on barley as a major feed ingredient will be a key driver of the global barley market in the coming years.
Barley as a Food Ingredient
Barley’s use as a food ingredient is expanding due to its nutritional benefits and versatility. Barley is rich in soluble fiber, particularly beta-glucan, which has been shown to help lower cholesterol levels and improve heart health. Additionally, barley contains essential vitamins and minerals, such as B vitamins, iron, and magnesium, making it a nutritious addition to the diet.
Barley is commonly used in the production of breakfast cereals, where its high fiber content contributes to improved digestion and satiety. It is also used in baked goods, such as bread, muffins, and crackers, as well as in snacks and energy bars. The demand for whole grains and health-focused food products has led to an increased interest in barley, as consumers seek out nutritious and functional ingredients for their diets.
Moreover, the growing trend of plant-based and gluten-free diets has further contributed to the rise in barley’s popularity. Barley flour and barley-based products are being increasingly used as alternatives to wheat in gluten-free food products, catering to consumers with gluten sensitivities or those choosing to avoid gluten for health reasons. Barley’s versatility in food applications is expected to continue driving its growth in the global barley market.
Sustainability and Environmental Considerations
Sustainability is a growing concern in the agricultural sector, and barley production is no exception. As climate change and environmental factors continue to affect agricultural practices, the focus on sustainable farming methods has intensified. Barley is known for its ability to grow in a wide range of climates and soil conditions, making it a resilient crop. Its ability to thrive in less-than-ideal growing conditions has made it a preferred option for farmers in regions where other crops may struggle to grow.
Moreover, barley is considered an environmentally friendly crop due to its relatively low water and fertilizer requirements compared to other cereals. The shift towards sustainable farming practices is likely to boost the production of barley, as consumers and industries increasingly demand products that are grown using environmentally responsible methods.
Barley Market Segmentation
The market can be segmented based on various factors:
Breakup by Application
- Food
- Seed
- Industrial
- Feed
Breakup by Region
- North America
- Europe
- Asia-Pacific
- Latin America
- Middle East and Africa
Competitive Landscape
The global market boasts a competitive landscape with various players operating across the value chain, from farmers and suppliers to manufacturers and distributors. Some of the major companies contributing to the global barley market include:
- Soufflet Group
- Malteurop Groupe
- GrainCorp Limited
- Boortmalt Group
- Cargill, Incorporated
- Others
Market Challenges
Despite the positive outlook for the global barley market, several challenges could impact its growth. One of the key challenges is the volatility of barley prices, which can fluctuate due to factors such as weather conditions, pests, and diseases. Barley is also susceptible to various diseases, including rusts and molds, which can affect crop yields and quality. These factors may lead to supply disruptions and price increases, potentially impacting the market.
Additionally, the competition between barley and other grains, such as wheat and corn, could affect the market. Barley’s relatively low yield compared to other crops may limit its growth in certain regions, particularly where farmers are focused on higher-yielding crops.
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