Land preparation for winter crops has started in most parts of the country. In central and eastern Algeria some early planting has started with recent rains. Production of cereals in 1998 more than doubled compared to last year, to 3 million tonnes, due to generally favourable weather conditions. Wheat production is estimated at 2 million tonnes, whilst the output of barley more than tripled to 1 million tonnes. Cereal imports in 1998/99 (July/June) are forecast at some 5.7 million tonnes.
Planting of the (mainly irrigated) wheat crop is underway. Production of wheat in 1998 increased by some 4 percent over last year to 6.1 million tonnes. Likewise, the output of maize is estimated at 6.3 million tonnes, 8 percent up on last year. Imports of wheat and wheat floor in 1998/99 (July/June) are forecast at 7 million tonnes and those of coarse grains at 3 million tonnes.
Land preparation for winter crops is underway. Wheat output in 1998 is estimated to have increased to 4.4 million tonnes, about 90 percent higher than the 1997 harvest, as a result of favourable weather. The output of barley, estimated at 2 million tonnes, is about 49 percent higher than last year. Imports of wheat in 1998/99 (July/June) are forecast at 2 million tonnes, some 20 percent lower than last year.
Recent rains have prompted early planting in some areas. However, more rains are needed for widespread planting. The output of cereals in 1998 is estimated at 1.7 million tonnes, 58 percent up on last year. Production of wheat is estimated to be 53 percent higher than last year and the barley output increased by 90 percent to 303 000 tonnes. Imports of wheat and barley in 1998/99 (July/June) are forecast at 900 000 tonnes and 300 000 tonnes, respectively.