FAO/GIEWS - Foodcrops & Shortages 09/01 - SAUDI ARABIA (10 September)

SAUDI ARABIA (10 September)

Production of wheat in 2001 is forecast at 1.8 million tonnes, similar to last year, which together with stocks, will be sufficient to cover the country's requirements. The Government-guaranteed purchase price for wheat produced by wheat farmers remains at US$400 per tonne. With an annual barley production of about 200 000 tonnes, Saudi Arabia remains the world’s largest importer of barley, accounting for nearly one-third of the world barley trade. Total imports of cereals in 2001/02 (July/June) is currently estimated at 6.2 million tonnes, including about 5 million tonnes of barley.