This year the southwest monsoon commenced on June 10 but only became active on June 23 and more rain is still needed to replenish irrigation and hydro electric reservoirs. Last year, as a result of a dry southwest monsoon, reservoir levels dipped to record lows. Rice production from this year's main 'maha' and second 'yala' crop is expected to be around 1.68 million tons (milled equivalent) , some 20 percent higher than last year's drought reduced crop though over 400 000 tons lower than record production in 1995. This year's target for the 'yala' crop, to be harvested in August/September, is 1.15 million tons. The country requires some 2.17 million tons for rice utilization and has an import requirement of around 490 000 tons.