Irregular and ill-distributed rains in December have negatively affected the 1997/98 second season (“postrera”) crops, currently being harvested, while delaying planting of the third season (“apante”) crop. A low maize output of some 260 000 tonnes, the main cereal, for the whole year is expected, mostly the result of the severe damage incurred by El Niño related drought to the first season crops. This compares with last year’s above- average 333 000 tonnes output. Production of sorghum is also anticipated to decline significantly. Assistance to a seriously affected population of about 145 500 people has been requested to the international community. Assistance would principally consist of emergency food distribution and technical support for the rehabilitation of agricultural activities.
Wheat imports in marketing year 1997/98 (July/June) are forecast to increase from the previous year’s receipts of 110 000 tonnes to some 120 000 tonnes. Maize imports should increase from some 30 000 tonnes to about 175 000 tonnes to help cover the deficit in production. Rice imports in 1998 (January/December) should be close to 1996 level.