NAMIBIA (1 August) The 1997 production of cereals is estimated at a record 172 600 tons, almost double last year’s output. This is the result of larger area planted this year and increased yields following abundant rainfall in the northern crop growing regions during much of the season.

The food situation is expected to be satisfactory during the marketing year 1997/98. However, despite the record harvest, cereal imports of 83 400 tons (wheat 46 500 and maize 36 900 tons) will be necessary to meet national consumption needs. This requirement is expected to be covered commercially.