FAO/GIEWS - Foodcrops & Shortages 11/98 - KOREA, DEMOCRATIC PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF*

KOREA, DEMOCRATIC PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF* (25 November)

An FAO/WFP Crop and Food Supply Assessment Mission which visited the country from 10 to 27 October found that despite an improved harvest, DPR Korea will enter 1999 with a large food deficit. Cereal Production is estimated at 3.48 million tonnes compared to last year's severely reduced crop of 2.66 million tonnes. Against this, some 3.93 million tonnes would be required for food alone and 4.83 million tonnes for total cereal utilisation, leaving an overall import requirement of about 1.35 million tonnes. Assuming that the country could import about 300 000 tonnes commercially, the overall deficit amounts to 1.05 million tonnes, with which the country needs assistance. The mission stressed the need for adequate targeting of food aid to vulnerable groups most at risk and in support of food-for-work activities.

The Mission also noted the need for adequate support for agricultural recovery, rehabilitation and development to enable the country to produce enough food to meet its minimum needs. On a more immediate basis, assistance is urged on improving input supplies, mainly fertilizers, spare parts and fuel.

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