FAO/GIEWS - Foodcrops & Shortages 02/02 - GEORGIA (1 February)
Grain harvest at 718 000 tonnes nearly doubled in 2001 compared with the drought reduced harvest of the preceding year (391 000 tonnes). Production included 305 000 tonnes of wheat, 350 000 tonnes of maize and 50 000 tonnes of barley. Drought in the western parts of the country severely compromised the spring crop and many drought-affected farmers are in need of relief assistance. Winter sewing campaign is complete and similar areas to the preceding year have been seeded. Winter cereal harvest, which is the main crop, will depend on late winter and early spring precipitation.
Cereal import requirement in 2001/02 marketing year (mostly wheat) is estimated at 460 000 tonnes, including food aid of 81 000 tonnes, which have been virtually entirely pledged. The Protracted Relief and Recovery Operation activities are planned to be extended until 30 March 2003.