FAO/GIEWS - Foodcrops & Shortages 09/98 - COLOMBIA (3 September)
Harvesting of the 1998 coarse grain crops is underway. A recovery is expected in maize production, the main cereal. The 1997 crop was seriously affected by El Niño induced drought. Rains have resumed since April, benefiting planting and development of the crop. Output is tentatively forecast at an average 1.2 million tonnes which compares to last year’s 800 000 tonnes. Production of sorghum, by contrast, is expected to decline for the third consecutive year. Harvesting of the important paddy crop is about to start. A recovery is also anticipated from the 1997 affected crop. Some 330 000 tonnes of milled rice should be imported in 1998 (January/December) to help meet last year’ production deficit.
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