Seasonal normal to abundant rains since August are favouring planting of the 2002/03 second season rainfed coarse grain and bean crops. The rains have been regular and well distributed in the north-west, which had been particularly affected by dry weather through most of the year. The dry weather had also affected crops in various areas of the Département du Sud and the Département de la Grand’ Anse. The crops were subsequently affected by hurricane rains and flooding thus incurring additional damage to crops. Abnormally high food prices are recently reported. Food assistance is being provided to some 100 000 people in the area until harvest of the second season crops and other minor food crops start in January 2003. Maize output for the country as a whole in 2002 is tentatively forecast at a below-average level of about 180 000 tonnes, while some 100 000 tonnes of sorghum are anticipated. Harvesting of the second season irrigated paddy crop has started. Production of paddy for the whole year is provisionally forecast at about 103 000 tonnes. The output of beans in 2002 is expected to be some 30 000 tonnes. Food assistance from the international community is being provided through development projects to some sectors of the population, mainly in the north and northwest.