IRAQ* (2 June)
Harvesting of winter grain (mainly wheat and barley) in Iraq normally begins in May/June. The performance of the 2003 crop is still uncertain and will only be determined with successful completion of a planned FAO/WFP Crop and Food Supply Assessment Mission in June/July 2003.
In 2002, production of cereals (mainly wheat and barley) was estimated at about 1.7 million tonnes, about 7 percent higher than the previous year due to improved weather. Weather conditions in the current cropping season were also favourable. Iraq’s total cereal production has averaged below 2 million tonnes in the last five years, less than half the level in 1990. Agricultural productivity, particularly in the major producing regions of central and southern Iraq, has continued to suffer from limited investment, shortage of inputs and deteriorating irrigation infrastructure. Three consecutive years of severe drought (1999-2001) have also devastated agricultural production. In 2002, improved weather resulted in increased cereal production.
Cereals imported under the oil-for-food deal have led to significant improvements in the overall food supply situation. However, nutritional deficiencies remain a serious problem. A Security Council Resolution on 22 May 2003 lifted sanctions against Iraq and extended provisions of earlier resolutions for a six month period during which the Oil-for-Food Programme is to be terminated, with transfer of responsibility to the Authority in Iraq.
A revised Emergency Operation was jointly approved on 11 June 2003 by FAO and WFP for expanded emergency assistance to the public distribution system, Iraqi refugees, IDPs and vulnerable groups for a total of 2.18 million tones, worth a total of about US$ 1.48 billion tonnes for a period of 5 months.