FAO/GIEWS - Foodcrops & Shortages 11/01 - ARGENTINA (3 November)
The Government estimates that some 7.05 million hectares of wheat were planted this year, 9 percent more than last year. The crop, due to be harvested in the next weeks, is forecast at 17.5 million tonnes. Prospects are favourable for wheat crops due to increased plantings and favourable winter weather conditions. However, some yield losses are expected following heavy rains and moderate temperatures in September and October that are ideal conditions for fungus development. The heavy rains of spring have also delayed land preparation for the forthcoming 2002 maize crop, and planting intentions are down by 5 percent from last year.