Joint Statement from: Barley Australia, Grains Industry Market Access Forum, National Working Party on Grain Protection, Grain Producers Australia, Grain Growers Limited, InterGrain and Seednet.
Reminder on Market Requirements for IMI Tolerant Barley Varieties
30 May 2019
Key Points:
- Growers and farm advisors are reminded of the potential market access impacts of using IMI chemicals on barley this year.
- It is recommended that growers carefully consider the use of imidazolinone chemicals (IMI) on their IMI tolerant barley varieties (Spartacus CL or Scope CL).
- Growers are advised to consult with their agronomists, chemical suppliers and grain buyers about the potential market impacts when considering the use of IMI chemicals on barley.
BACKGROUND
On 29 March 2019, the Australian barley industry released a statement that recommended growers carefully consider the use of imidazolinone chemicals on their IMI tolerant barley varieties (Spartacus CL or Scope CL) this season. This industry update reaffirms that message. A copy of the March statement is available here:
- bit.ly/2EEiOAe (via Barley Australia website)
Grain Trade Australia also released a statement advising of the potential marketing and financial issues associated with IMI chemicals on barley, available here:
- bit.ly/2JHR7uh (via Grain Trade Australia website)
NEXT STEPS
Industry and chemical companies have a priority focus on maintaining access to chemical technology for the Australian barley industry.
Through chemical companies and the Australian government, the Australian barley industry is currently seeking various overseas governments to adopt IMI MRLs on barley that are more aligned with Australian MRLs. However, seeking alternative MRLs is a complicated process and timelines are uncertain and difficult to predict. Applications for revised MRLs may not be successful. It is currently unknown whether revised MRLs may be adopted by those markets or in place for the 2019 harvest.
Growers are encouraged to speak with their relevant bulk handling companies and grain buyers to keep updated with their plans for handling IMI tolerant barley varieties treated with the IMI chemicals (imazapyr, imazamox and imazapic). Growers are also encouraged to speak to their agronomists or advisors. Growers are also encouraged to participate in any bulk handler surveys where information is sought on potential use of IMI chemicals on IMI tolerant barley varieties, or grower meetings to ensure a co-ordinated industry approach to managing market access is maintained.
Media contact: Megan Sheehy, Barley Australia, 0400 156 088
