FAO/GIEWS - Foodcrops and Shortages 06/02 - TAJIKISTAN (30 May)
Locust invasion, recent floods and reported irrigation water shortages have dampened earlier expectations of a recovery in cereal production. The cereal harvest is now estimated at about 293 000 tonnes, which is similar to the drought affected harvest of the preceding year. Domestic cereal utilisation is estimated at about 1 million tonnes, while Tajikistan has an estimated capacity to import some 400 000 tonnes of cereals. The shortfall, more than 300 000 tonnes, need to be covered through food aid. In the past, food aid had not exceeded 160 000 tonnes. An FAO/WFP Crop and Food Supply Assessment Mission is currently in the country to determine the extent of food shortages, import requirements and the number of affected people.