DOMINICAN REPUBLIC (30 May)
Normal and well distributed rains in April benefited the 2002/03 third season maize crop, currently being harvested, as well as planting of the 2003/04 first season maize crop. The rains have been particularly beneficial in the north, the northwest and the eastern parts of the country. Maize output in 2002 is provisionally estimated at an above average 42 000 tonnes. Harvesting of the 2003 main paddy crop has started and an above-average production, close to last year’s record output, is tentatively forecast. Good outturns are also anticipated for other minor foodcrops such as roots, plantains and fruits.
Wheat imports in marketing year 2003/04 (July/June) are forecast at 325 000 tonnes, close to the previous year’s level. A high 700 000 tonnes of maize should be imported in marketing year 2003/04 (July/June) in response to the strong demand from the animal feed industry. About 30 000 tonnes of beans will be imported in 2003, to meet the high demand for this staple, which together with rice make for the basic food items in the population’s diet.