Global Barley Market Expected to Reach USD 32.5 Billion by 2033 - IMARC Group

Global Barley Market Statistics, Outlook and Regional Analysis 2025-2033

The global barley market size was valued at USD 24.1 Billion in 2024, and it is expected to reach USD 32.5 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 3.35% from 2025 to 2033.

The growing focus on sustainability, high-yield potential, and advanced crop management solutions is driving significant advancements in the global barley market. On the contrary, governments and key industry players are investing in research and development to address challenges like climate change, disease resistance, and weed management. For instance, in June 2024, Canada launched the USD 9.6 Million National Barley Cluster, led by AAFC and CBRC, aimed at boosting barley production. Furthermore, this initiative focuses on improving genetics, agronomy, and disease resistance, thereby ensuring profitability and sustainability for Canadian farmers while supporting industries like livestock and brewing. These initiatives highlight the importance of collaborative efforts to meet rising demand while maintaining environmental balance.

Moreover, innovation in region-specific barley varieties is shaping the market, which is catering to varying climatic and soil conditions. In October 2024, Australian Grain Technologies (AGT) introduced two new barley varieties, Bigfoot CL and PegasusAX, designed for low-to-medium rainfall regions. Bigfoot CL, a high-yield Clearfield variety, and PegasusAX, leveraging CoAXium technology for efficient weed control, underscore the industry’s commitment to enhancing yield potential and crop resilience. In line with this, SECOBRA Research and Seednet launched Spinnaker in October 2024, a high-yielding malt-potential barley variety tailored to Australia's brewing industry. Spinnaker’s reduced gibberellic acid use and exceptional grain quality make it an ideal choice for low-rainfall regions. Consequently, these innovations underline the importance of tailored solutions to address regional agricultural challenges. Although, the barley market growth is further driven by the increasing adoption of precision agriculture and a focus on meeting the demands of diverse industries. Therefore, enhanced collaboration among governments, research institutions, and private players ensures that the market remains resilient and adaptable. Overall, the barley market continues to provide innovative solutions for modern agricultural needs, as technological advancements and sustainability take center stage.

Global Barley Market Statistics, By Region

The market research report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of all the major regional markets, which include North America (the United States and Canada); Europe (Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, and others); Asia Pacific (China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia, Indonesia, and others); Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, and others); and the Middle East and Africa. According to the report, Europe dominates the barley market due to its advanced agricultural practices, strong demand from the brewing industry, and significant investments in sustainability.

North America Barley Market Trends:

In North America, the market is driven by its use in livestock feed and brewing industries. In Canada, advancements like the National Barley Cluster aim to boost production through genetic research and disease resistance. These initiatives ensure sustainability and profitability for farmers while meeting the rising demand from industries like craft beer brewing, thereby solidifying the region's role in barley production and innovation.

Europe Barley Market Trends:

Europe is the dominating region in the market due to its advanced agricultural practices and strong demand from the brewing industry. The region benefits from extensive research and innovation, enabling high-quality barley production tailored to diverse industrial needs. For example, in June 2024, HEINEKEN and VIVESCIA launched Europe’s first large-scale regenerative agriculture barley harvest. This initiative supports sustainable farming, reduces emissions, and strengthens supply chains, aiming to involve 1,000 farmers across 100,000 hectares, including 25,000 hectares in France, by 2026. Also, favorable government policies and a robust brewing industry further solidify Europe’s leading position in the global industry.

Asia Pacific Barley Market Trends:

Asia Pacific sees rapid growth in barley demand, strengthened by its increasing use in food and beverage sectors. In China, barley is a key ingredient in brewing and malting. Government efforts to enhance crop yields through agricultural modernization and local R&D support regional growth. The expanding beer industry and rising health consciousness contribute to the growing demand for barley-based products across the region.

Latin America Barley Market Trends:

In Latin America, the market is growing, driven by its application in brewing and livestock feed. In Argentina, barley cultivation is expanding, supported by favorable weather conditions and export opportunities. The country’s robust brewing industry and rising global demand for malt-quality barley have enhanced its prominence in the market, with farmers focusing on high-yield, disease-resistant varieties to meet industry standards.

Middle East and Africa Barley Market Trends:

The Middle East and Africa barley market is influenced by its use in animal feed and beer production. In Ethiopia, barley is a staple crop, critical for local consumption and brewing. Government initiatives promoting modern farming techniques are increasing yields. The region's brewing industry's growth and barley’s importance as a dietary staple drive the market's expansion despite challenging climatic conditions.

Top Companies Leading in the Barley Industry

Some of the leading barley market companies include Briess Malt & Ingredients Co, Cargill Incorporated, Crisp Malting Group, EverGrain LLC (Anheuser-Busch InBev), Grain Millers Inc., GrainCorp Limited, IREKS GmbH, Malt Products Corporation, Malteurop Groupe S.A. (VIVESCIA), Maltexco S.A, Muntons PLC, and The Soufflet Group, among many others. In November 2023, Cargill Incorporated announced Commitment to Eliminate Deforestation and Land Conversion in Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay by 2025. Cargill’s commitment will help protect native vegetation and support sustainable agriculture in these countries.

Global Barley Market Segmentation Coverage

• On the basis of the type, the market has been bifurcated into covered, two-row barley, six-row barley, and hulless, wherein covered represents the most preferred segment. Covered is distinguished by its husk that remains attached during harvesting and processing. This feature makes it particularly suitable for animal feed and certain brewing processes.
• Based on the grade, the market is categorized into food grade, feed grade, and malt grade, amongst which malt grade dominates the market. Malt grade is primarily utilized in the brewing and distilling industries. This grade is preferred for its high enzyme content, optimal starch levels, and the ability to efficiently convert starches into sugars during the malting process.
• On the basis of the distribution channel, the market has been divided into supermarkets and hypermarkets, departmental stores, specialty stores, and online stores. Among these, supermarkets and hypermarkets exhibit a clear dominance in the market. Supermarkets and hypermarkets offer a wide range of products, including whole variant, flakes, and pearled, catering to a broad consumer base.
• Based on the industry vertical, the market is bifurcated into food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, seed industry, personal care, animal feed, nutraceuticals, and others, wherein food and beverages dominate the market. The versatility in culinary applications, ranging from traditional dishes to innovative food products, drives its demand in this segment.

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