Moldova becomes EU's top barley supplier

Moldova has emerged as the leading supplier of barley to the European Union for the 2026/2027 season, surpassing both Ukraine and Serbia. During the first three months of the season (July–September 2026), Moldovan exporters delivered 117,600 tons, marking the highest volume for this period in five seasons and a 31% increase compared to 2024.

While the average export price rose to 3.76 lei/kg, a 7% increase from the previous year, the actual gains for producers are limited. Approximately 95% of transactions included transport and insurance in the price; because freight rates doubled, the increased revenue was largely absorbed by logistics costs, leaving farm-gate purchase prices similar to 2024-2025 levels.

Export activity was heavily front-loaded, with 72,500 tons shipped in July, followed by a sharp decline in August and September due to logistical bottlenecks and the prioritization of barges for higher-value crops like rapeseed and sunflower. RUSAGRO-PRIM SRL was the top exporter, accounting for 44,600 tons, or 38% of the total volume.