The AWB today announced that estimated pool returns (EPRs) for its 2011/12 barley pools have been revised down by $5 - $15 a tonne as global barley demand remains relatively flat.

AWB’s Jon White said: “Despite the reduction is EPRs the 2011/12 barley pool provides an opportunity for Australian barley farmers as we see demand gathering momentum in the New Year as Saudi demand returns to the market beyond April, which will support demand and our EPRs,” Mr White said.

“Globally the barley supply and demand outlook is evenly balanced providing limited sale opportunities putting pressure on domestic barley prices.

“Due to the current barley quality profile malt prices have dropped significantly due to oversupply and limited demand while feed barley grades have been revised down modestly.

“Farmers need to be diligent when comparing barley pool returns and should take into account the timing and accuracy of estimated pool returns as some do not updated guidance regularly.

“AWB regularly updates its EPRs to accurately reflect the current state of the market to reflect our view of the market over the life of the pool giving farmers a realistic estimated value,” Mr White said.

Farmers should contact our grain marketers or call AWB’s farmers services centre on 1800 4GRAIN (1800 447 246) regarding their grain marketing.

AWB’s 2011/12 barley estimated pool returns (EPRs) below: 

BARLEY: Estimated Pool Return 2011/12 AWB Pools ($/t FOB, excluding GST)
Grade	Western Australia		South Australia		East Coast
BA1	$275	Down $10	-	-	$250*	Down $15
BA2	$260	Down $5	-	-	-	-
GA1	$265	Down $15	-	-	$250*	Down $15
GA2	$260	Down $5	-	-	-	-
BU1	$265	Down $15	-	-	$250*	Down $15
BU2	$250	Down $15	-	-	-	-
HIND	-	-	-	-	$249*	Down $6
F1	$250	Down $10	$242	Down $8	$240	Down $5
F2	-	-	$237	Down $8	$225	Down $5

* Available only in Victoria

Media contact: Peter McBride 03 9268 7362 or 0417 662 451

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