GIEWS Country Briefs

Reference Date: 15-April-2013

FOOD SECURITY SNAPSHOT Rice production is forecast to increase in 2013 Cereal imports to remain high in 2012/13 (July/June) Food security of population affected by hurricane Sandy remains difficult

The 2013 rice production expected to increase on last year

Planting of the 2013 main season rice crop, for harvest in July to December, is underway. Weather conditions so far have been generally favourable. Production is expected to reach 600 000 tonnes, slightly up on the 2012 record level, following an increase in planted area and improved input availability. The Government has introduced a series of measures to increase rice production and reduce imports, which include investments in agricultural inputs and equipment, coupled with the distribution of improved seed varieties. The Viet Nam-Cuba cooperation (2010-2015) which aims to increase rice productivity is also expected to boost this year’s output just as in 2012.

Cereal imports to remain high in 2012/13

The country normally imports three-quarters of its consumption requirements of cereals, mainly wheat (which is not produced domestically) and rice. In the 2012/13 marketing year (July/June), imports of wheat are forecast to remain at their average level of 800 000 tonnes. Rice imports for the same period are forecasted at 400 000 tonnes.

Food security situation of population affected by hurricane Sandy remains difficult

In late October 2012, hurricane Sandy affected some 2.6 million people and caused severe damages to food crops and agricultural infrastructure, particularly in the eastern provinces of Santiago de Cuba, Holguín and Guantánamo. In order to mitigate the hurricane impact, the Government set up safety net programmes for the most affected and requested additional international assistance. An Emergency Operation (EMOP) was jointly approved on 13 February 2013 by FAO and WFP for emergency assistance for a total of 563 000 people affected by hurricane Sandy in the Provinces of Santiago de Cuba, Holguin and Guantanamo for a period of seven months (1 February to 31 August 2013). Despite a general improvement, the food security situation still remains difficult in the most affected areas.