FIJI (6 April)
Earlier this year, heavy rains and floods led to serious flooding in the western region of Viti Levu. The cost of damage was estimated at over US$2.34 million. In 1998, sugar production was severely affected by drought, which reduced output to 250 000 tonnes, compared to an around 450 000 tonnes in an average year. Following the La Ni�a related drought FAO is processing an assistance project for the distribution of vegetable and cassava seeds.