Reflecting unfavourable weather during the growing season, the output from the recently harvested wheat crop is estimated to have decreased by 10 000 tons to 140 000 tons.
Imports of cereals in 1996/97 (October/September) are estimated at some 1.8 million tons about 6 percent less than last year. Purchase of imported wheat by local flour millers is linked to the domestic wheat procurement at a price higher than that prevailing in the world market.