FAO/GIEWS - Foodcrops & Shortages 09/98 - TURKMENISTAN (3 September)

TURKMENISTAN (3 September)

Harvesting of the spring grains is nearing completion. The total 1998 cereal area is estimated at 625 000 hectares, well above the 534 000 hectares planted last year, and almost 16 percent above average. Land reforms, improvements in the credit system and increased incentives prompted the area expansion. The 1998 cereals crop is estimated at around 864 000 tonnes, well up on the 1997 level. Total cereal imports for the 1997/98 marketing year (July/June) reached some 310 000 tonnes, mainly high grade milling wheat. The import requirement for 1998/99 is forecast to be in the region of 400 000 tonnes. In the first half of 1998 the country ran a sizeable trade deficit and continues to face difficulties in exploiting its large natural gas reserves, raising concerns that the import capacity may be constrained.

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