Feed-grain prices announced by some of the biggest buyers of Irish grain this week are up about €30/t on 2025, but that increase is not enough to combat spiralling input costs.
Fertiliser and fuel are among the biggest costs on tillage farms. Fuel is up about 74% since this time last year, and the price of CAN went from approximately €400/t in early 2025 to €550/t at the end of March, when farmers were buying product. It has since fallen below €500/t.
IFA grain chairperson John Murphy said some farmers will not be in a financial position to plant crops for the 2027 season, adding that farmers will question growing malting barley.
Many farmers will be paid more for rejected malting barley than for grain that met specifications. The Irish Grain Growers Group said the price was “shocking” and called on drinks companies to ensure growers are properly paid.
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