Ukraine Enters the Top 10 Global Barley Exporters in 2024

In 2024, Ukraine strengthened its position among the leading global barley exporters, securing supplies of this crop worth $557 million. This accounts for 8.35% of the total global barley export and 2.26% of the country’s total agricultural export.

This is reported by AgroReview

Export Dynamics and Market Positions

Despite barley experiencing one of the largest declines in exports among grains — the figure dropped from $1.27 billion in 2021 to $362 million in 2023 — a recovery occurred in 2024. Ukrainian barley exports rose to $557 million, the highest result since the onset of the full-scale war.

Among the main global barley exporters in 2024, besides Ukraine, are Australia ($1.65 billion), the EU ($1.35 billion), Russia ($946 million), Canada ($658 million), and Kazakhstan ($265 million). Ukraine ranked sixth in this list, maintaining a significant role in global grain trade.

Export Geography and Key Markets

In 2024, the geography of exports underwent some changes: the number of countries importing Ukrainian barley decreased from 39 to 30. The market became more concentrated — nearly 80% of the total export volume was accounted for by five main buyers.

The main supply destinations became:

• China — 38% of exports;
• European Union — 20%;
• Libya — 9%;
• Tunisia — 6%;
• Jordan — 6%.

“Barley, despite a decrease in its share of total exports (2.3%), demonstrates significant resilience. The 6th place in the world underscores Ukraine’s important role in the global market. The further success of exports depends on the stable operation of the maritime corridor and maintaining partnerships with key buyers in Asia and the EU.”

Thus, despite challenging conditions, Ukrainian barley retains its competitiveness and strategic importance in the international market, and the future progress of the sector will depend on the stability of logistics and the expansion of cooperation with key partners.