FAO/GIEWS - Foodcrops & Shortages 02/02 - SOUTH AFRICA (4 February)

SOUTH AFRICA (4 February)

Prospects for the 2002 maize crop, to be harvested from May, are favourable. This reflects an increase in the area planted to maize, in response to favourable prices and abundant rains at planting time. The area planted to white maize and yellow maize increased by 9 percent and 3 percent respectively. Precipitation in December and January has been about normal. Maize production is expected to recover from the reduced level of 2001.

The overall food supply situation continues to be satisfactory. The wheat crop harvested in November 2001 was above average. Latest estimates indicate an output close to 2.5 million tonnes, an increase of 6 percent on the previous year�s level. This was due to larger plantings and adequate water supplies.