Canada: For 2004-05 barley production in Canada is forecast to increase marginally from 2003-04 due to higher yields, according to a report released by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) on June 04, 2004. Barley supplies are expected to rise by 7% due mainly to higher carry-in stocks. Exports of malting barley are expected to increase as import demand in China recovers to a more normal level. Feed barley exports are forecast to fall due to increased competition from the EU and the Black Sea regions. Feed use is expected to rise due to higher barley supplies in western Canada and increased shipments to eastern Canada. Carry-out stocks are forecast to increase. Off-Board feed barley prices are expected to increase slightly due to higher US corn prices. The CWB May 2004-05 PRO for No.1 CW Feed Barley is $136/t versus $164/t for 2003-04. The PRO for Special Select Two Row designated barley is $190/t versus $200/t for 2003-04, largely due to increased supplies in Europe.

10 June, 2004