Argentina is the largest barley producer in Latin America, with production reaching over 4 million metric tons in 2020. Barley is primarily grown in the southern provinces of Buenos Aires, La Pampa and Santa Fe. Most of the barley crop is exported, with the majority going to feed s in the Middle East and Southeast Asia.
Brazil is another major barley producer, with production at around 1.5 million metric tons annually. The southern regions of Rio Grande do Sul and Parana account for the bulk of barley growing areas. Much of Brazil's barley is locally consumed for animal feed use. Exports have increased in recent years to countries like Saudi Arabia.
Chile, Colombia, Mexico and Peru collectively produce around 1-1.5 million metric tons of barley per year. Chile is the largest producer among these countries. Colombian and Mexican barley goes primarily to domestic feed s, while Chile exports a portion of its crop internationally. Peru's barley production is increasing to support its growing poultry industry.
Barley Uses in Latin America
Latin America Barley the primary use of domestically produced barley is for animal feed. Countries like Brazil, Colombia and Mexico utilize most of their barley crop to produce feed for cattle, poultry and swine production. As livestock industries in the region continue expanding, demand for locally grown barley feed will rise accordingly.
Malting barley production is also gaining importance in some Latin American countries. Argentina is a major exporter of malting barley to brewers worldwide. Chile also produces malting-grade barley, which contributes to its craft beer and spirits industries. Demand for locally malted barley from brewers could incentivize further investment in malting facilities across Latin America.
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