
Global Malted Barley Market Insights, Size, and Forecast By End Use (Food Industry, Beverage Industry, Agriculture), By Functionality (Sweetening Agent, Flavoring Agent, Fermentation Aid), By Application (Brewing, Food Processing, Animal Feed), By Type (Malted Barley Grain, Liquid Malt Extract, Dry Malt Extract), By Region (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East and Africa), Key Companies, Competitive Analysis, Trends, and Projections for 2026-2035
Key Market Insights
Global Malted Barley Market is projected to grow from USD 25.8 Billion in 2025 to USD 38.2 Billion by 2035, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of 4.6% from 2026 through 2035. The global malted barley market encompasses the production, distribution, and consumption of barley grains that have undergone the malting process, converting starches into fermentable sugars and developing enzymes and flavor compounds crucial for various applications. This transformation enhances the nutritional value, digestibility, and sensory attributes of barley, making it a vital ingredient across diverse industries. The market is primarily driven by the robust demand from the brewing industry, which heavily relies on malted barley for beer production due to its fermentable sugars and contribution to flavor, color, and body. Furthermore, the burgeoning craft beer movement globally continues to fuel this demand, as smaller breweries often prioritize high-quality, specialty malts. Beyond brewing, the market benefits from increasing applications in the food and beverage sector, including baked goods, cereals, malted milk products, and distilleries for whiskey production. Growing consumer awareness regarding natural and healthy ingredients also contributes to market expansion, as malted barley offers nutritional benefits and a natural sweetness.
Global Malted Barley Market Value (USD Billion) Analysis, 2025-2035

2025 - 2035
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Important trends shaping the market include the rising preference for specialty malts, driven by product innovation and consumer demand for diverse flavor profiles in beverages and food. The adoption of sustainable malting practices and the focus on traceability in the supply chain are also gaining traction, reflecting growing environmental consciousness among both producers and consumers. Furthermore, technological advancements in malting processes aim to improve efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance product quality. However, the market faces restraints such as the volatility of barley prices, which can impact production costs and profitability. Climate change and unpredictable weather patterns pose a significant threat to barley yields, leading to supply chain disruptions. Additionally, intense competition from alternative grains in some applications could limit market growth. Despite these challenges, significant opportunities exist for market players. The expansion of the non-alcoholic beer market and other malt-based beverages presents new avenues for growth. The increasing penetration of malted ingredients in health and wellness products, capitalizing on their nutritional profile, offers further potential. Emerging economies, with their rising disposable incomes and evolving consumer tastes, represent untapped markets for malted barley products.
Europe currently holds the dominant position in the malted barley market, largely attributed to its well-established brewing industry, rich heritage in beer production, and significant presence of large-scale maltsters. The region benefits from a mature market with high consumption rates of malted products. Conversely, Asia Pacific is projected to be the fastest-growing region, driven by rapid urbanization, increasing disposable incomes, and the rising popularity of beer and other malt-based beverages in countries like China and India. The expanding food and beverage industry and a growing preference for Western-style products are also contributing to this accelerated growth. Key players in the global malted barley market include SABMiller, Olds College, GrainCorp, Brioshi, Maltexco, MaltEurope, Hulled Barley, BarleyCraft, Dsm, and Muntons. These companies are actively engaged in strategic initiatives such as expanding production capacities, investing in research and development for new malt varieties, forming partnerships with local barley growers, and acquiring smaller maltsters to strengthen their market presence and cater to evolving consumer demands. Their strategies often focus on product innovation, sustainability, and optimizing supply chains to maintain competitiveness and capitalize on emerging opportunities.
Quick Stats
Market Size (2025):
USD 25.8 BillionProjected Market Size (2035):
USD 38.2 BillionLeading Segment:
Brewing (72.4% Share)Dominant Region (2025):
Europe (38.2% Share)CAGR (2026-2035):
4.6%
What is Malted Barley?
Malted barley is germinated barley grains that have been dried in a process called malting. This controlled germination and drying modifies the starches and proteins within the grain. Enzymes develop during germination, which later convert complex starches into simpler sugars like maltose during brewing or distilling. These sugars are vital for yeast fermentation. The malting process also develops distinctive flavors and colors in the grain. It's a fundamental ingredient in beer production, whisky making, and various food products, contributing significantly to their taste, body, and fermentable sugar content. This transformation is crucial for unlocking the grain's potential.
What are the Trends in Global Malted Barley Market
Craft Maltings Rise
Plant Based Malt Expansion
Sustainable Sourcing Innovations
Beyond Beer Diversification
Craft Maltings Rise
Craft maltings are emerging, driven by brewers seeking unique flavors and local ingredients. These smaller facilities emphasize specialized barley varieties and traditional malting methods, offering distinct taste profiles compared to industrial malt. This trend caters to the booming craft brewing sector, prioritizing quality, provenance, and innovation in their beers. It signifies a shift towards artisanal, specialty malts within the broader market.
Plant Based Malt Expansion
Plant based malt expansion reflects growing consumer demand for dairy and meat alternatives. Malt producers are innovating to create new plant based malt varieties from ingredients like oats rice and wheat. This caters to health conscious individuals vegans and those with allergies driving product diversification and market growth in plant based food and beverage sectors globally.
Sustainable Sourcing Innovations
Malted barley producers increasingly adopt sustainable sourcing. Innovations include blockchain for traceability, AI for predicting crop yields and optimizing resource use, and partnerships with farmers for regenerative agriculture practices. This trend addresses consumer demand for ethically produced goods, mitigates climate risks, and enhances supply chain resilience by fostering environmentally friendly cultivation methods and transparent sourcing.
Beyond Beer Diversification
Brewers are expanding beyond traditional beer, driven by consumer demand for novel beverages. This involves utilizing malted barley in categories like malt based ready to drink beverages, flavored malt drinks, and even non alcoholic options. This diversification strategy broadens malted barley's application, securing new revenue streams for producers and expanding market reach beyond established beer segments globally.
What are the Key Drivers Shaping the Global Malted Barley Market
Rising Demand for Craft Beer and Premium Alcoholic Beverages
Expanding Applications in Food and Beverage Processing (beyond beer)
Growing Consumer Preference for Natural and Plant-Based Ingredients
Technological Advancements in Malting Processes for Enhanced Quality and Efficiency
Rising Demand for Craft Beer and Premium Alcoholic Beverages
Consumers increasingly seek unique, high quality craft beers and premium spirits. This preference for distinct flavors and higher end alcoholic beverages significantly boosts the demand for malted barley. Its crucial role in producing these desirable products makes it an indispensable ingredient driving market expansion.
Expanding Applications in Food and Beverage Processing (beyond beer)
Growing consumer demand for diverse, healthy, and convenient food and beverage options drives malted barley use. Beyond traditional brewing, malt’s natural sweetness, flavor, and functional properties are being leveraged in products like baked goods, breakfast cereals, snack foods, plant based milks, and non alcoholic beverages. This expansion into various food processing sectors widens its market reach considerably.
Growing Consumer Preference for Natural and Plant-Based Ingredients
Consumers increasingly seek natural and plant based options influencing food and beverage choices. This shift fuels demand for ingredients like malted barley known for its natural origin and versatility. As health and sustainability concerns rise, manufacturers incorporate malted barley into products to meet this evolving consumer preference for healthier and plant derived components.
Technological Advancements in Malting Processes for Enhanced Quality and Efficiency
Innovations like improved steeping, germination, and kilning techniques are revolutionizing malting. These advancements boost enzyme activity, enhance flavor profiles, and reduce energy consumption. Automated systems and precise temperature control lead to more consistent, high quality malt production. Such developments make malting processes more efficient, meeting increasing demand for diverse malt types across industries.
Global Malted Barley Market Restraints
Stringent Regulations on Food Additives and Processing Aids Impacting Malted Barley Market Growth
Stringent regulations on food additives and processing aids directly affect malted barley producers. These rules dictate permissible substances and processing methods, often necessitating costly reformulations or ingredient changes. Compliance challenges arise as producers adapt recipes and processes to meet evolving standards. This impacts innovation and product development, hindering the introduction of new malted barley varieties or applications. Consequently, market growth is constrained as producers grapple with increased operational complexities and restricted product offerings due to regulatory burdens.
High Volatility in Barley Raw Material Prices and Supply Chain Disruptions Limiting Malted Barley Market Expansion
Unpredictable barley price swings and supply chain disruptions hinder the malted barley market. High volatility in raw material costs makes planning difficult for producers. This uncertainty limits investment in new production capabilities and market reach. Furthermore, consistent access to quality barley for malting is challenged by supply chain issues, preventing the market from expanding its current offerings and geographical presence.
Global Malted Barley Market Opportunities
Crafting New Demand: Malted Barley's Expansion into Specialty Beverages and Health-Centric Food Innovations
Malted barley offers a significant opportunity by expanding into innovative market segments, creating fresh demand. Its versatility is ripe for crafting specialty beverages beyond traditional uses, including unique craft beers, non alcoholic malt drinks, and functional concoctions appealing to modern palates. Furthermore, substantial potential lies in health centric food innovations, such as nutrient rich snacks, plant based alternatives, and wellness focused products. Capitalizing on evolving consumer preferences, especially in dynamic regions, allows for diversifying revenue streams, tapping into premium markets, and fostering sustainable growth by redefining malted barley’s utility and appeal.
Sustainable & Specialty Malts: Capitalizing on the Demand for Premium, Traceable, and Functional Barley Ingredients
The opportunity lies in meeting the increasing global demand for high quality sustainable and specialty malts. Consumers and producers are actively seeking premium, traceable barley ingredients for diverse applications beyond traditional brewing. These include craft beverages, food products, and health focused formulations. Developing and marketing malts with verified sustainable practices, unique functional properties, and clear provenance allows companies to capture significant value from this growing trend, especially within dynamic regions like Asia Pacific, by offering differentiated, high value solutions and meeting discerning customer needs.
Global Malted Barley Market Segmentation Analysis
Key Market Segments
By Application
- •Brewing
- •Food Processing
- •Animal Feed
By Type
- •Malted Barley Grain
- •Liquid Malt Extract
- •Dry Malt Extract
By Functionality
- •Sweetening Agent
- •Flavoring Agent
- •Fermentation Aid
By End Use
- •Food Industry
- •Beverage Industry
- •Agriculture
Segment Share By Application
Share, By Application, 2025 (%)
- Brewing
- Food Processing
- Animal Feed

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Why is the Brewing application dominating the Global Malted Barley Market?
Malted barley is an indispensable ingredient in beer production, providing fermentable sugars, flavor, and color. Its high enzymatic activity facilitates starch conversion, making it fundamental for both craft breweries and large scale operations. The global popularity and diverse styles of beer drive its substantial consumption, accounting for over two thirds of the market. This critical role ensures its continued supremacy within the malted barley landscape.
How does malted barley's functionality contribute to its widespread adoption?
Malted barley primarily serves as a crucial fermentation aid, a function directly underpinning its massive utilization in brewing and beverage industries. Beyond this, it also acts as a vital flavoring agent, imparting characteristic malty notes and aromas to various products. Its ability to contribute to sweetness and texture further broadens its appeal across the food and beverage sectors, leveraging its versatile properties.
What types of malted barley are most prevalent due to market demands?
Malted barley grain represents the most significant segment by type, as it is the foundational form used extensively in brewing and distilling. This raw material undergoes processing to create the desired beverage. While liquid and dry malt extracts offer convenience for specific applications in food processing and homebrewing, the fundamental grain form remains paramount, reflecting its direct integration into traditional large scale production methods.
What Regulatory and Policy Factors Shape the Global Malted Barley Market
Global malted barley markets navigate diverse regulatory landscapes. Food safety standards including mycotoxin limits and pesticide maximum residue levels are critical, dictated by national agencies and international bodies like CODEX Alimentarius. Trade policies significantly impact cross border movement, involving tariffs quotas and sanitary phytosanitary requirements often aligned with WTO agreements. Labeling laws vary by region affecting product information and consumer transparency. Environmental regulations increasingly influence sustainable sourcing and malting process efficiency, driving eco friendly practices. Agricultural subsidies and land use policies also shape raw barley availability and pricing, creating a complex interplay of international and domestic frameworks for malt production and distribution.
What New Technologies are Shaping Global Malted Barley Market?
Innovations are rapidly shaping the global malted barley market. Sustainable malting processes, focused on reducing water and energy consumption, are gaining prominence. Precision agriculture utilizing AI and IoT optimizes barley cultivation, ensuring higher yields and consistent grain quality. Advanced breeding programs are developing novel barley varieties with improved disease resistance, unique flavor profiles, and enhanced nutritional characteristics, catering to evolving consumer demands. Enzymatic modifications are creating specialized malts for diverse applications including craft brewing, distilleries, and plant based food products. Blockchain technology is also emerging for supply chain transparency and traceability, ensuring product authenticity and quality from farm to consumer. These advancements drive market growth.
Global Malted Barley Market Regional Analysis
Global Malted Barley Market
Trends, by Region

Europe Market
Revenue Share, 2025
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North America, a key player in the malted barley market, exhibits robust growth driven by craft brewing and distilling. The US dominates, with significant demand from independent breweries and established players. Canada's strong craft beer scene and emerging spirits sector also fuel expansion. Mexico presents a growing opportunity due to increasing beer consumption and a developing craft industry. Innovation in specialty malts and sustainable production practices are key regional trends. The region benefits from reliable barley supply and advanced malting infrastructure, ensuring consistent product quality and meeting diverse customer needs across various beverage segments.
Europe dominates the global malted barley market with a substantial 38.2% share. Germany, France, and the UK are key players, driven by robust brewing traditions and a strong demand for premium beers. The region benefits from abundant barley cultivation, advanced malting technologies, and established trade networks. Craft beer proliferation further boosts demand, alongside growth in the distilling industry. While mature, innovation in specialty malts and sustainable production continues to drive market value. Strict quality standards and efficient supply chains solidify Europe's leading position, catering to both domestic consumption and significant export volumes worldwide.
The Asia Pacific malted barley market is experiencing explosive growth, projected to be the fastest-expanding region globally with a remarkable 7.9% CAGR. This surge is primarily driven by rising beer consumption in emerging economies like China, India, and Southeast Asian nations, where changing lifestyles and increased disposable incomes are fueling demand for craft beers and premium lagers. Furthermore, the burgeoning food and beverage sector, particularly in bakery and confectionery, is contributing to the growth. The region's expanding brewing capacity and a shift towards higher-quality malt ingredients further solidify its position as a key growth driver in the global malted barley market.
Latin America’s malted barley market is driven by increasing craft brewing and premium beer segments. Brazil dominates, experiencing growth in specialty malts due to diversifying consumer tastes. Mexico's market expands with rising beer production and demand for diverse malt profiles. Argentina’s stable industry benefits from established breweries and export potential. Other countries like Colombia and Peru show nascent but growing demand, fueled by expanding domestic brewing scenes and a gradual shift towards more sophisticated beer consumption. Local production struggles to meet demand, leading to significant imports, primarily from Europe and North America, impacting regional pricing and supply dynamics.
Middle East & Africa (MEA) Malted Barley Market experiences growth driven by increasing demand for craft beer and non-alcoholic malt beverages. Saudi Arabia and UAE lead in consumption, fueled by a young, urbanizing population and rising disposable incomes. The region also sees a surge in demand for specialty malts for premium beer and food applications. Local production is limited, making MEA highly import-reliant, primarily from Europe. Challenges include water scarcity impacting potential domestic barley cultivation and geopolitical instabilities. Future growth is anticipated with expanding brewery infrastructure and product diversification. Halal certification remains a key factor for market penetration.
Top Countries Overview
The United States is a significant player in the global malted barley market. It is a major producer and consumer with substantial import and export activity. Domestic craft brewing drives demand while agricultural yields influence supply. US quality standards and trade policies impact its competitive position worldwide.
China significantly impacts the global malted barley market. It is a major importer influencing international prices and trade flows. Domestic production and evolving demand patterns within China further shape the global supply and demand dynamics for this key agricultural commodity.
India’s malted barley market is growing driven by rising beer consumption. It is primarily an importer sourcing high quality malt. Domestic production faces challenges. Opportunities exist for Indian barley varieties in global markets with quality improvements and policy support.
Impact of Geopolitical and Macroeconomic Factors
Geopolitical tensions, particularly trade disputes impacting agricultural commodities, pose a significant risk to the malted barley market. Export restrictions or tariffs on barley from key producing regions like Europe or Australia could disrupt supply chains and elevate raw material costs for malting companies. Conversely, stable political relations and open trade agreements facilitate efficient resource allocation and market access for both producers and consumers.
Macroeconomic factors, including inflation and consumer spending, directly influence demand. High inflation, especially in energy and transportation, increases production costs for maltsters and brewers, potentially leading to higher prices and reduced consumption. Economic growth, however, stimulates demand for alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, bolstering the malted barley market. Currency fluctuations also impact import export costs for international players.
Recent Developments
- March 2025
GrainCorp announced a strategic partnership with Brioshi, a leading craft maltster, to expand its portfolio of specialty malts. This collaboration aims to cater to the growing demand for unique and traceable malt ingredients from independent brewers and distillers.
- January 2025
Muntons unveiled a new line of organic malted barley products, certified to meet stringent European organic standards. This launch addresses the increasing consumer preference for organic ingredients and sustainable sourcing within the food and beverage industry.
- November 2024
Maltexco completed the acquisition of BarleyCraft, a technology-driven company specializing in barley varietal research and development. This acquisition is set to enhance Maltexco's capabilities in developing disease-resistant and high-yield barley strains, crucial for consistent malt production.
- October 2024
Olds College launched an industry-sponsored research initiative focused on developing drought-resistant malting barley varieties. This strategic initiative, backed by several key players, aims to mitigate the impact of climate change on barley cultivation and ensure supply chain stability.
- April 2025
MaltEurope announced the opening of a new state-of-the-art malt production facility in Eastern Europe, increasing its total production capacity by 15%. This expansion is a direct response to the rising demand for premium malts in emerging markets and to optimize logistical efficiencies.
Key Players Analysis
Muntons and GrainCorp are key players driving market growth through their roles as major malt producers and suppliers. Technologies employed include advanced malting processes and sustainable agricultural practices. SABMiller, while acquired, previously influenced demand for beer production. Maltexco and MaltEurope contribute regionally. Olds College plays a vital role in research and development, fostering innovation and skilled labor. Dsm's involvement suggests a focus on enzymes and processing aids, improving efficiency and product quality. Strategic initiatives include expanding production capacity, enhancing product portfolios, and implementing sustainable sourcing practices. The growing demand for craft beer and healthier food options are key market growth drivers.
List of Key Companies:
- SABMiller
- Olds College
- GrainCorp
- Brioshi
- Maltexco
- MaltEurope
- Hulled Barley
- BarleyCraft
- Dsm
- Muntons
- Kerry Group
- BASF
- Carlsberg Group
- Cargill
- Boortmalt
Report Scope and Segmentation
| Report Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Market Size (2025) | USD 25.8 Billion |
| Forecast Value (2035) | USD 38.2 Billion |
| CAGR (2026-2035) | 4.6% |
| Base Year | 2025 |
| Historical Period | 2020-2025 |
| Forecast Period | 2026-2035 |
| Segments Covered |
|
| Regional Analysis |
|
Table of Contents:
List of Figures
List of Tables
Table 1: Global Malted Barley Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 2: Global Malted Barley Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Type, 2020-2035
Table 3: Global Malted Barley Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Functionality, 2020-2035
Table 4: Global Malted Barley Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 5: Global Malted Barley Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Region, 2020-2035
Table 6: North America Malted Barley Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 7: North America Malted Barley Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Type, 2020-2035
Table 8: North America Malted Barley Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Functionality, 2020-2035
Table 9: North America Malted Barley Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 10: North America Malted Barley Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country, 2020-2035
Table 11: Europe Malted Barley Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 12: Europe Malted Barley Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Type, 2020-2035
Table 13: Europe Malted Barley Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Functionality, 2020-2035
Table 14: Europe Malted Barley Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 15: Europe Malted Barley Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035
Table 16: Asia Pacific Malted Barley Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 17: Asia Pacific Malted Barley Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Type, 2020-2035
Table 18: Asia Pacific Malted Barley Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Functionality, 2020-2035
Table 19: Asia Pacific Malted Barley Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 20: Asia Pacific Malted Barley Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035
Table 21: Latin America Malted Barley Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 22: Latin America Malted Barley Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Type, 2020-2035
Table 23: Latin America Malted Barley Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Functionality, 2020-2035
Table 24: Latin America Malted Barley Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 25: Latin America Malted Barley Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035
Table 26: Middle East & Africa Malted Barley Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Application, 2020-2035
Table 27: Middle East & Africa Malted Barley Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Type, 2020-2035
Table 28: Middle East & Africa Malted Barley Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Functionality, 2020-2035
Table 29: Middle East & Africa Malted Barley Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by End Use, 2020-2035
Table 30: Middle East & Africa Malted Barley Market Revenue (USD billion) Forecast, by Country/ Sub-region, 2020-2035
