Barley, a versatile and resilient cereal grain, plays a crucial role in global agriculture and food production. Known for its adaptability to various climates, barley is used in numerous applications, from brewing beer to feeding livestock and as a healthful ingredient in human diets. As of 2024, the following countries lead the world in barley consumption, driven by their agricultural practices, dietary preferences, and industrial needs.
Worldwide Barley Consumption
The European Union holds the largest share of global barley consumption, similar to its dominance in barley production. Between the 2012/13 and 2015/16 seasons, the EU consumed approximately 51-53 million tons of barley. In comparison, the volume of barley traded internationally over the past three seasons ranged from 22 to 29.2 million tons.
Top-10 Barley Consuming Countries in the World 2024
European Union with the barley consumption of 52,200,000 metric tonnes, stands as the largest barley consumer in the world, followed by Russian Federation, Saudi Arabia and China.
Here is the list of top-10 barley consuming countries in the world 2024:
Top-10 Barley Consuming Countries in the World 2024 | ||
Rank | Country | Barley Consumption (in 1000 metric tons) |
1. | European Union | 52,200 |
2. | Russian Federation | 14,400 |
3. | Saudi Arabia | 8,025 |
4. | China | 7,600 |
5. | Canada | 6,700 |
6. | Turkey | 6,050 |
7. | Ukraine | 4,900 |
8. | Iran | 4,800 |
9. | United States | 4,177 |
10. | Australia | 3,000 |
Largest Barley Consumer in the World – European Union
Barley Consumption: 52,200,000 metric tons
The European Union (EU-27) is the world’s largest barley consumer, with an annual domestic consumption of 52.2 million metric tons. This substantial demand underscores the EU’s leading role in both barley production and consumption, significantly surpassing other regions. The EU’s extensive use of barley spans various industries, including animal feed and brewing, driving its high consumption levels.
Second Largest Country in terms of Barley Consumption – Russian Federation
Barley Consumption: 14,400,000 metric tons
The Russian Federation ranks as the second-largest barley consumer in the world, with an annual domestic consumption of 14.4 million metric tons. This substantial usage is driven by the country’s significant livestock sector and brewing industry, making barley an essential component of its agricultural and industrial practices.
World’s Third Largest Barley Consuming Country – Saudi Arabia
Barley Consumption: 8,025,000 metric tonnes
Saudi Arabia is the third-largest barley consumer globally, with an annual domestic consumption of 8.025 million metric tons. The country’s high barley demand is primarily fueled by its large-scale use in livestock feed, essential for supporting its extensive animal husbandry sector in arid conditions where alternative feed sources are limited.