HGCA sees chance of exports to Spain, Italy

By FWi staff

THE opportunity to increase UK cereal exports to Spain and Italy are looking more likely this season following smaller crop sizes in Southern Europe, according to the Home-Grown Cereals Authority.

With harvest almost completed in Southern Europe, preliminary sample results show the hot weather in June affected wheat and barley quality.

Although wheat protein levels in the north are generally good, bushel weights in Spain are low, noted the HGCA in its weekly MI Saturday report.

As a result, UK exports could receive a boost with, Spain and other southern EU countries seeking additional supplies in the coming season.

However, the HGCA warned that exports will continue to depend on exchange rates and the quality of the UK cereal crop.

The Euro rose 3% last week against the Dollar and the Pound, raising new crop values by about £1.50/t.

Wheat sold straight off the combine is currently selling at about £76/t delivered to a port.