FAO/GIEWS - Foodcrops & Shortages 11/98 - ARGENTINA (23 November)
Decreased plantings with respect to 1997 are reported in the large producing central and western parts of Buenos Aires province and south-east of Cordoba, mainly reflecting farmers’ decision to switch to alternative crops attracted by better prices relative to wheat. A combination of excessive rains and generally dry conditions during the growing season, has also adversely affected the crop. Harvesting has started and early forecasts point to a reduced output of some 10.1 million tonnes, compared to 14.8 million tonnes produced in 1997. Planting of the 1998/99 maize crop, currently underway, has also been affected by the lack of adequate precipitation. The area planted is expected to decline considerably with respect to last year’s record level.
Sowing of the 1998/99 paddy crop continues and official forecasts indicate that enlarged plantings are anticipated relative to last year when the crops were severely affected by El Niño induced heavy rains and flooding.
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