EU: As a consequence of new malting capacities becoming operational, estimates are that Sweden will need 100,000 tonnes more malting barley ex crop 2004, Belgium and France 65,000 tonnes more each. In the new countries Poland is expected to import 200,000 tonnes, Slovakia 120,000 tonnes in 2004/2005. Altogether the expanded EU may have and export surplus of 750,000 tonnes, a figure much lower than in past years. In case of very good crops this figure may be higher, but a lower surplus and firmer markets would threaten in case of adverse weather conditions. Export markets for EU malting barley will be Balkan countries, Russia, South America and less likely South Africa, Turkey and China.

21 May, 2004