Australia Forecasts Record Barley and Strong Wheat Crops in 2025/26

Australia is set to achieve its largest barley crop and second-largest wheat crop on record in the 2025/26 marketing year, despite challenging seasonal conditions, according to the Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Western Australia, which produces around 40% of the nation’s wheat and barley, experienced very limited rainfall until July, significantly delaying the usual April planting start. However, the region received well above-average rainfall afterward, supporting crop development.

As a result, wheat production is estimated at 37 million tonnes, 34% above the 10-year average. Barley production is forecast at a record 15.5 million tonnes, 32% higher than the 10-year average.

Wheat exports are expected to reach 27 million tonnes, up 3.3 million tonnes from last year and 7.3 million tonnes above the 10-year average. Australia ships wheat to more than 50 destinations, with Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, and South Korea being the top markets in recent years.

The barley production surge is driven by strong yields, forecast to be the second-highest on record. Barley exports are projected at 8.6 million tonnes, also the second-highest historically, with China accounting for roughly three-quarters of total barley exports over the past two years.

Tags: Australia, barley, wheat