Insufficient precipitation in the southwest, southeast and central parts of the country since end-June, allegedly caused by the early effects of the “El Niño”, has negatively affected the 1997 first season crops, currently in the ground. A detailed assessment of damage has not yet been made. The output of maize, the main cereal, is expected to decrease from last year’s 1.1 million tons to a below- average 1 million tons as a result of damage incurred. Production of sorghum is expected to remain close to a below- average 47 000 tons. The paddy crop is anticipated to be slightly below-average.
Wheat imports in marketing year 1997/98 (July/June) are expected to decrease slightly from the previous year receipts of 280 000 tons. Maize imports are forecast to increase from 290 000 tons to 380 000 tons, reflecting the growing domestic demand and the need to cover the loss in production. Rice imports in 1997 (January/December) should remain close to 1996 receipts of 35 000 tons.