The cereal harvest around the world and what that means for Irish tillage producers

James Nolan, a grain trader from R&H Hall, joined Michael Hennessy on the Tillage Edge podcast this week to discuss the cereal harvest around the world and what that means for Irish tillage producers.

James talked about the volumes of maize, wheat, and barley production around the world and noted Russia's large harvest at an estimated 83 million tonnes. This is currently the cheapest supply of wheat in the world.  

Closer to home, the difficult planting conditions last year impacted both Ireland and Europe with the result there is less wheat in the system. This is currently driving the price (along with other factors) however James thinks this will reduce overtime.

James commented that there isn't a shortage of milling wheat at the moment although exports of milling wheat from Europe are down by 50%. Up to the middle of this year maize dictated the price of cereals in Ireland however given the current maize harvest (and yield predictions) barley is now the main driver.  

James said there were opportunities for farmers to sell forward during this year (wheat in the range €195/t) and added there will be opportunities in the next couple of months but growers should keep an eye on the price differential between barley and wheat. 

National Crops Forum

Don't forget the second part of the largest National Crops Forum is taking place this Thursday September 17th @6.30pm, as a webinar over zoom.  

The forum will look at the Green Deal and Farm to Fork and also look forward to how the industry may be developed over the next number of years.  

To listen to previous episodes, visit The Tillage Edge Podcast