Vietnam is about to start-up its first malt plant this May. But the 35,000 tonnes of Lausmann plant will not change the overall picture for import needs significantly, as Vietnam also looks forward to very promising times, analysts revealed. Imports of 160,000 tonnes of malt are foreseen for 2004. But especially for next year European maltsters have given their introduction to the Vietnamese market, as Australian maltsters are expected to reduce their commitment in favor of the non-import tax ruling for Australian malt to Thailand as of 2005. Past September sales from Australia to Vietnam were reported at US$ 360 CIF, but recent sales from Europe were made at US$ 400.

21 April, 2004