FAO/GIEWS - Foodcrops & Shortages 09/99 - VIET NAM (7 September)
As in neighbouring countries, widespread rain in late August, increased moisture supplies for rice. The country has three rice crops a year: the first is the 10th month (rainy season) crop, followed by the winter-spring crop and then the summer- autumn crop. This year, by mid July, 50 percent of the 10th month crop had already been transplanted in the north, where early rains benefited development. Rice production for 1999/2000 is forecast to be around 19 million tonnes (milled), similar to last years record crop of 18.92 million tonnes. A bumper rice crop was produced in 1998/99, despite drought early in 1999.
Recent reports indicate that the country could export 4.2 million tonnes of rice this year, some 200 000 tonnes higher than the target of 3.9 million tonnes. By the end of August an estimated 3.4 million tonnes had already been exported. Last year the country exported 3.8 million tonnes.
Back
to menu