BANGLADESH (27 May)
The 2002 paddy output is estimated at 39.5 million tonnes, up 8.5 percent on the previous year, a result of more cultivation of high-yielding varieties, uninterrupted supply of fertilizer, smooth irrigation, and favourable weather. The 2003 paddy production is forecast to have a slight increase to 39.6 million tonnes.
A storm in May caused a number of deaths and hundreds of houses flattened. Seasonal storms are common in Bangladesh, one of the world’s poorest countries. Weather experts are predicting three or four more storms and a couple of cyclones are likely to hit the country. Continued food aid is needed to meet the uncovered cereal imports.