The outlook for the 1998 grain harvest has not been seriously affected by the floods and landslides and a good harvest, of about 600 000 tonnes, is expected. Growing conditions have been satisfactory overall but not as good as last year. However, the area sown to grains is thought to have increased slightly, offsetting marginally lower yield expectations. Harvesting of winter wheat is about to start. The price of wheat on the market is falling and the grain supply situation is stable.
The heavy rains, floods and landslides have caused extensive damage and loss of life; the government has requested international donor assistance for the victims including 1 500 made homeless.