FAO/GIEWS - Foodcrops & Shortages 06/01 - TUNISIA (18 June)
Harvesting of the 2001 winter crops is underway. Aggregate cereal output is anticipated to be close to 1.2 million tonnes against an average of 1.7 million tonnes. Although growing conditions have been generally favourable for winter grains in the northern region, a prolonged dry spell in the centre and the south adversely affected yields and output in these areas. Preliminary estimates of wheat production point to an output close to 900 000 tonnes, which is slightly above last year’s drought-reduced level and below average. Barley output is also expected to rise from 241 000 tonnes to about 325 000 tonnes, but to remain below average. Imports of cereals in 2001/02 (July/June), mostly wheat, maize and barley are forecast at some 1.7 million tonnes.