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February 1997
This report includes the weather briefs, production briefs, and commodity feature articles from the full World Agricultural Production circular, with the exception of some of the statistical tables and charts. This report draws on information from USDA's global network of agricultural attaches and counselors, official statistics of foreign governments, other foreign source materials, and results of office analysis. Estimates of U.S. acreage, yield, and production are from the USDA Agricultural Statistics Board, except where noted. This report is based on unrounded data;numbers may not add to totals because of rounding. The report reflects official USDA estimates released in the World Agricultural Supply Estimates (WASDE-323) February 12, 1997.
The report was prepared by the Production Estimates and Crop Assessment Division, FAS, AGBOX 1045, 14th and Independence Ave., Washington, DC 20250-1000. Further information may be obtained by writing to the division, or by calling (202) 720-0888, 9516, or by FAX (202) 720-8880.
We plan to issue PART 2 of this circular every month, normally 5 working days AFTER the release of Part 1. The next issue of World Agricultural Production, Part 1, will be available electronically after 3:30 pm local time on March 12, 1997.
WEATHER BRIEFS
BRAZIL: MOISTURE MOSTLY ADEQUATE IN ALL GROWING AREAS
During December 1996, rainfall averaged near- to above-normal across
most of southern Brazil. Near- to slightly below-normal rainfall
occurred in Mato Grosso and Goias. During the first week of January
1997, scattered showers fell across Mato Grosso do Sul and Parana,
keeping soils moist for vegetative soybeans. Further south, dry weather
prevailed across Rio Grande do Sul. However, soil moisture remained
adequate due to previous rainfall. Widespread heavy showers covered
Mato Grosso, Goias, and Minas Gerais, boosting soil moisture for
soybeans, while flooding was likely across portions of southern and
western Minas Gerais. During January 5 - 11, light-to-moderate showers
in southern Brazil, eased a drying trend that started in late December
across Rio Grande do Sul. This moisture was beneficial for soybeans
nearing reproduction. Elsewhere, moderate showers favored soybeans and
corn. Heavier showers that week, exacerbated flooding across southern
Minas Gerais. During January 12 - 18, hot weather across Rio Grande do
Sul, along with isolated pockets of dryness, stressed flowering soybeans
and corn. This dryness and heat was broken by widespread showers on
January 19 and 20. Elsewhere in Brazil during January 12 - 25, showers
covered most soybean growing areas, maintaining adequate moisture
supplies for soybean reproduction. Dryness returned to Rio Grande do
Sul, during January 21 - 25. During the week of January 26 through
February 1, late week rainfall benefited reproductive soybeans across
northern and central Rio Grande do Sul. In southern Rio Grande do Sul,
dry weather favored rice but reduced irrigation supplies. Southern Rio
Grande do Sul is Brazil's major rice growing region. Elsewhere, showers
maintained favorable soil moisture levels. Finally, during February 2 -
8, showers covered the major soybean areas of southern Brazil,
eliminating dryness in northwestern Rio Grande do Sul. Southern Rio
Grande do Sul received moderate to heavy showers, increasing irrigation
supplies but slowing early rice harvesting.
SOUTHERN AFRICA: MOISTURE OUTLOOK MIXED
Throughout December 1996, beneficial rain maintained favorable growing
conditions in central and eastern sections of the corn growing areas.
In the western corn belt, most of December's rain came late in the month
and was preceded by periods of stressful heat. The sugarcane areas of
Kwazulu-Natal also trended drier than normal for much of December but
highs were limited to the lower 30's C. During the first week of
January, moderate to heavy showers covered a broad section of the
western corn belt, ending a drying trend that had depleted topsoil
moisture reserves. In contrast, drier weather returned to the central
and eastern corn belt, with only a few locations reporting rainfall of
25 to 50 millimeters or greater. During the week of January 5 - 11,
drier weather returned to the western corn belt. Rainfall totaled 10
millimeters or less over most crop areas of North West and Orange Free
State. Somewhat heavier rain fell in the northeastern section of the
corn belt and crop areas in Kwazulu-Natal and Eastern Cape. From
January 12 - 16, scattered and mostly light showers fell across the main
corn producing areas. Heavier rain covered extreme eastern sections of
the corn belt and sugarcane areas of Kwazulu-Natal. By mid-January corn
was approaching the critical reproductive phase of growth, when it
requires additional moisture for normal development. During January 19
- 25, scattered showers continued across the corn belt. Rain was highly
beneficial in North West, an important white corn producer and moderate
to heavy rain fell in Kwazulu-Natal's northern sugarcane areas, while
drier weather dominated the southern crop areas. During January 26
through February 1, dry weather dominated the eastern half of the corn
belt, with many location receiving no rain. To the west, moderate
showers sustained crop vigor over sections of western Orange Free State
and Northwest Province. Heavy rain fell along the coast of Kwazulu-Natal,
increasing moisture for sugarcane growth. From February 2 - 8, warm, dry
weather dominated the corn belt, likely resulting in some stress on reproductive
corn. Rainfall was generally isolated and light throughout the region, although
scattered, moderate showers brought some relief to northern corn late in the week.
Western corn areas, trending dry since early January, experienced stressful highs
in the mid to upper 30's C. Late-week showers benefited coastal sugarcane areas of Kwazulu-Natal.
PRODUCTION BRIEFS
NORTH KOREA: GRAIN PRODUCTION REVISED LOWER
Total-grain production (milled rice, corn, wheat) in North Korea for
1996/97 is estimated at 2.4 million tons, down 1.0 million or 30 percent
from last season. This is the lowest level for North Korean production
since 2.6 million tons were estimated for the 1968/69 season. Milled
rice output is estimated at 1.3, equaling last season's flood-damaged
crop. For 1996/97, low spring temperatures delayed planting and
unusually heavy rain in late-July caused serious localized flooding,
especially in southwestern North Korea. However, hot and drier weather
in August and mild weather allowed some damaged rice to recover.
Harvested area is estimated at last season's level of 0.6 million
hectares, due to the July flooding and lingering affects of last year's
floods. Yield is estimated at 3.25 tons per hectare (paddy basis) or 2
percent below the 5-year average.
Corn production is estimated at 1.0 million tons, down 1.0 million or 50
percent from last season. Heavy rains in July caused area and
production losses (about 50,000 hectares and 150,000 tons), but
significant losses occurred prior to harvest. According to the U.S.
agricultural attache in Seoul, as much as half the corn crop was
consumed as fresh corn during the late summer to supplement declining
food rations. (USDA database reflects corn for grain only and not fresh
corn.) Harvested area declined to 0.3 million hectares or 50 percent
from last season due to the early harvest. Yield is estimated at 3.33
tons per hectare, up 3 percent from the 5-year average. Wheat
production is estimated at 0.2 million tons, unchanged from last season.
The wheat output estimate has been relatively constant throughout the
past several years.
KENYA: CORN PRODUCTION LOWERED DUE TO POOR SHORT-RAINS SEASON
Corn production in Kenya for 1996/97 is estimated at 2.2 million tons,
down 0.4 million or 15 percent from 1995/96. Harvested area is
estimated at 1.5 million hectares, down 14 percent from last season as
unfavorable weather, low corn prices and government policies led farmers
to switch to other crops, according to the U.S. agricultural attache in
Nairobi. This year was plagued by a poor short-rains season, especially
in eastern and northeastern Kenya. In northeastern Kenya, the rains
lasted about two weeks instead of two and a-half-months; in other areas,
the short-rains season began late and ended early. Corn production
during the short-rains season usually account for about 20 percent of
the crop. Also, the long-rains season (March through June 1996) was
below-normal. Periods of dryness in April and May along with above-normal
temperatures stressed the corn crop and reduced yield potential. Yield
is estimated at 1.47 tons per hectare or 3 percent above the 5-year average.
FORMER SOVIET UNION: WEATHER AND CROP DEVELOPMENTS
In January, below-normal precipitation fell in Ukraine, southern Russia,
Belarus, and Lithuania, limiting moisture recharge. Above-normal
precipitation fell over northern Russia, maintaining a deep snow cover.
In early January, unseasonably cold weather prevailed over winter grain
areas in Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, and the Baltics. However, on about
January 14, a warming trend began over these areas and persisted until
month's end, providing favorable overwintering conditions for dormant
winter grains. In early February, unseasonable cold briefly returned to
winter grain areas in Russia and Ukraine, where lowest temperatures
ranged from -15 to -30 degrees Celsius. In general, snow cover was
adequate to provide protection from extreme cold in most areas.
However, some localized damage may have occurred, especially in parts of
Ukraine where snow cover was more variable. Recently, a warming trend
spread eastward over most areas west of the Urals, providing favorable
conditions for winter grains but melting some protective snow cover in
the far west and south.
FEATURE COMMODITY ARTICLES
INDICATIONS FOR 1997/98 FOREIGN COTTON AREA
Foreign cotton area for the 1997/98 season depends on several factors
with cotton prices and those of competing crops playing a crucial role.
Foreign cotton area is also influenced by domestic and world financial
conditions, government policies, and weather. The Cotlook A-Index
represents the price level of international raw cotton offered to the
market on a daily basis from several cotton trading countries.
Generally, a very strong direct relationship exists between cotton area
and this price index for the previous year. For the first five months
of 1996/97, the index averaged 76 cents per pound of lint, down 13 cents
from the same period in 1995/96. This factor alone suggests that
foreign cotton area next year will be down from 1996/97 acreage.
However, the fall in area should be mitigated as prices of competing
crops are forecast to weaken, offsetting some of the impact from lower
cotton prices. The lower area forecast is supported by U.S.
agricultural attaches stationed in major cotton producing countries
world-wide.
Preliminary indications are that foreign cotton area in 1997/98 could
range from 27.0 to 28.0 million hectares, compared with an estimated
28.2 million this year. The high end of the forecast range implies the
advantageous impact of weaker prices for competing crops such as corn
and in some cases wheat, favorable weather, and supportive government
policies in several large producing countries. The low end of the
forecast range considers the effect of lower cotton prices. In
addition, area harvested could be reduced due to weather, financial
problems, plant diseases, and insect infestations.
China: Cotton area in China for 1997/98 is highly uncertain. A
continuation of circumstances that affected the 1996 crop indicate that
area will decline. Farmers are switching to other crops that provide a
higher return on investment and require less use of inputs, especially
labor. Grains and vegetable are the most frequently mentioned
alternative crops, especially in China's northern provinces such as
Hebei and Shandong. It is unlikely that the official procurement price
(RMB14,000/MT or about 76.6 U.S. cents per pound) which the Government
pays farmers for raw cotton will increase. Current exchange rate of
RMB8.29 = US$1.00. The Cotton and Jute Corporation (CJC) has been
paying farmers less than this price by downgrading the quality of the
cotton farmers are selling, and in some cases even turning farmers away,
thereby further dampening grower enthusiasm for cotton. Officially, the
CJC must procure any cotton offered for sale by farmers.
FSU-12: Cotton area in the former Soviet Union for 1997/98 is forecast
to remain near this year's 2.5 million hectares. As in past years, two
opposing forces continue to influence the size of the cotton area. Each
Republic wants to maintain or expand area to earn hard currency; on the
other hand, they also want to increase food production to feed growing
populations. In addition to their food supply concerns, they continue
to experience increases in land salinity from cotton production
encouraging a shift of land out of cotton cultivation. On balance, area
is expected to stabilize if higher-yielding varieties can maintain or
increase production.
Mexico: Cotton area is expected to decrease significantly in Mexico for
1997/98. According to both private and government sources, Mexico's
cotton output for 1997/98 is projected to fall about 12 percent from the
previous year. This will be primarily a result of reduced planted area,
as growers shift to alternative crops in response to cotton's relatively
low price and the lack of government production incentives. For
example, in Sinaloa and southern Sonora, producers likely will be
attracted by better prices for horticultural products and improved
availability of water. In 1996/97, much of Mexico's increased
production of cotton was the result of a doubling of Sinaloa's planted
area when water supplies were tighter.
Brazil: Cotton area is forecast down from the 1996/97 season as
relative lower foreign cotton prices reduce demand for domestic cotton.
Because of this, higher prices of other crops such as soybeans and
sugarcane have reallocated area from cotton to these crops during the
current season. With no change in Brazilian import policy, the trend of
favoring cotton imports over domestic cotton is likely to continue. The
result is an area down from the 750,000 hectares of this year. Within
Brazil there is contention between the cotton growers and the importers
caused by the availability of credit. Credit is cheaper for cotton
importers than for growers. Cotton imports from Argentina have also
reduced the demand for Brazilian cotton as these imports enter with a
zero tariff rate. Growers are also dissatisfied with the Brazilian
Government for its non-support of cotton. Brazilian cotton growers
continue to blame part of their production difficulties on imports,
against which they cannot compete. Some growers are advocating an
increase in Brazil's tariff on imported cotton from 3 to 6 percent.
This proposed increase, however, has reportedly met resistance from the
Brazilian textile industry.
Argentina: Cotton area for 1997/98 in Argentina is projected higher
than this year's estimated 0.9 million hectares as stable or slightly
better domestic cotton prices are forecast for 1996/97. This assumes
that returns on alternative crop are not to different from the current
year and that the strong demand from Brazilian textile mills continues
into the outyear. This year cotton plantings fell well below
Argentina's goal of over 1.0 million hectares as a result of unfavorable
weather which caused poor crop stands and the need to reseed two or even
three times in certain areas, particularly in the central part of Chaco
Province. Nevertheless, farmers likely will still plant cotton because
of its higher returns relative to competing crops.
Paraguay: The cotton industry in Paraguay has declined in recent years,
as several negative factors have reduced profitability. Principal among
these are the inability of low-income farmers to obtain sufficient credit,
lack of quality inputs such as good seed, and last year's low
international prices. The combination of these factors reduced this
year's level of plantings to an estimated 200,000 hectares, down from
350,000 the year before. However, there are factors that could alter
this trend and push Paraguayan cotton area back to a more normal level
for 1997/98. Since 20 percent of the farm population depend directly of
cotton farming, the Government is likely to continue to support cotton
by providing inputs and working capital through development banks.
Secondly, emphasis is being placed on mechanization of cotton farming,
thereby reducing production costs.
Pakistan: Cotton area in Pakistan for 1997/98 should not be
significantly different from 1996/97 since domestic seed cotton and
lint prices have remained relatively high in relation to the
international market. Strong demand by the textile industry under
Pakistan's new free trade scenario also supports higher domestic prices.
The average sale price of seed cotton has been between Rs. 750-850 per
maund (one maund=37.324 kgs), about 23 to 26 U.S. cents per pound at the
current exchange rate of US$1.00=Rs. 40.08. To assure continued large
area, the Government halted increased sugarcane planting in cotton
growing regions of the Punjab. Also, the planned wide-scale
distribution of new insect and virus tolerant varieties in 1997/98 will
help maintain cotton acreage at the 1996/97 level. In addition, the
20,000 hectares lost during 1996/97 flooding may also be available
during 1997/98. However, this forecast should be viewed with some
caution because of the unpredictability of cotton trade policy in the
future.
India: Cotton area in India will be influenced primarily by the current
season's ending stocks and prices. Weak cotton prices are likely to
result in lower area in 1997/98. Price relationships between competing
crops such as cotton and rice in northern India, tobacco and chillies in
the south, and oilseeds and sugarcane in the central region also will be
important factors. Cotton is one of the few crops where prices have
been unusually low in recent months. There is likely to be a decline in
cotton area in Punjab and Haryana as farmers switch to more profitable
crops such as rice, fruit, and vegetables. Similarly, higher prices for
tobacco and chillies in Andhra Pradesh could induce a shift to these
crops. One region of uncertainty is the central state of Maharashtra
which is a major producer of both cotton and sugarcane. Producers of
both crops are suffering from weak prices and it is not clear how this
will affect cotton planting. Sugarcane planting for the 1997/98 season
is underway, and, if area declines, cotton area will likely expand.
Australia: Cotton area for 1997/98 in Australia is estimated below the
record 390,000 hectares harvested for 1996/97 due to lower prices.
Reservoir levels at 75 percent of capacity and heavy rains in
September/October 1996 boosted Australia's cotton production prospects.
As a result, crop area rose sharply as more irrigated cotton was
planted.
Turkey: In Turkey, cotton area for 1997/98 is forecast to decline due
to better returns from wheat cultivation in the Aegean area and from
horticultural production in Cukurova. Because of the lack of an orderly
marketing system and high domestic cotton prices, demand for Turkish
cotton by textile mills is forecast to decline, reducing prices at
planting time for the 1997/98 cotton crop. Currently, import activity
is reported to be unusually brisk due largely to the high domestic price
and because of quality problems with the current crop. Assuming no
significant changes in production policy for 1997/98 season, importation
of less expensive cottons are expected to continue.
Egypt: Cotton area for 1997/98 is forecast to increase in Egypt from
the 387,000 hectares harvested in 1996/97. The Government is paying
farmers a higher price for their 1996/97 cotton and this increase in
earnings should have a positive effect on planting decisions for the
1997/98 crop.
Greece: According to Greece's Hellenic Cotton Board, area for 1997/98
should be down from the 420,000 hectares harvested for 1996/97. The
lower area with its corresponding decline in production is an attempt by
the Board to reduce the European Union (EU) levy payments made by
farmers. Even with the lower area, production is forecast to be high
enough that Greek farmers will still need to pay the levy for production
in excess of the EU quota. Nevertheless, cotton is projected to
continue to dominate among field crops due to comparatively higher
returns and lower irrigation water demand. Cotton is Greece's most
important field crop and has replaced large areas of other irrigated
crops in recent years.
Foreign Cotton Area, Yield, and Production
Year Area Yield Production
(1,000 Hectares) (Kg/Ha) (1,000
Bales)
1987/88 26,802 539 66,335
1988/89 28,982 518 69,012
1989/90 27,707 531 67,549
1990/91 28,423 548 71,511
1991/92 29,575 575 78,067
1992/93 28,121 513 66,232
1993/94 25,533 516 60,567
1994/95 26,758 536 65,858
1995/96 28,987 557 74,118
1996/97 Estimate 28,247 518 67,261
5-Year Avg. 27,682 538 68,447
1997/98 Forecast 27,000 to 28,000
NOTE: Information in this article is based on field reports received in
early January 1997 from U. S. agricultural counselors and attaches,
together with information from FAS/USDA Washington analysts. Actual
area could vary from these estimates for a number of reasons, including
government policy changes, weather during the crop season, and price
changes for cotton and competing crops. The first official USDA
forecast of total 1997/98 foreign harvested area will be issued in May.
Individual country estimates for area, yield, and production will be
released in July of this year.
Ronald R. Roberson, Cotton Chairperson
Phone: (202) 720-0879
E-mail: roberson@fas.usda.gov
GRAIN PRODUCTION IN THE FORMER SOVIET UNION FOR 1996/97
Preliminary harvest results indicate that estimated 1996/97 grain
production in the former Soviet Union (FSU-15) increased less than 1
percent this year, to 121.0 million tons. Russia and Kazakstan enjoyed
modest rebounds from low 1995/96 output and production increased in the
Baltic States, Belarus, and Central Asia. These improvements, however,
were offset by poor harvests in Ukraine and neighboring Moldova where
production fell to the lowest levels in over 30 years.
Russian grain production for 1996/97 is estimated at 67.4 million tons,
not including roughly 2.0 million tons of pulses and miscellaneous
grains. Although 1996/97 total-grain yield is down nearly 20 percent
from the ten-year average, crops fared better than in 1995/96 when
severe drought in European Russia drove yield to the lowest level since
1981/82. Wheat production is estimated at 35.0 million tons, up 4.9
million from last year. Wheat area increased from 23.9 million hectares
to an estimated 25.0 million, and yields jumped over 10 percent.
Coarse-grain output is estimated at 32.1 million tons, including 15.5
million barley, 9.5 million oats, 1.0 million corn, 0.6 million millet,
and 5.5 million rye. Estimated rye area and production are up roughly
35 percent from last year, marking the first year-to-year increase since
1992/93.
Despite the year-to-year increase in total Russian grain output, total-grain
yield was below average in every major production region. A
combination of factors prevented the Russian crop from reaching the 70
to 72 million tons forecast by Russian agricultural officials late in
the growing season: a continued decline in soil fertility (due chiefly
to high fertilizer prices); localized summer dryness in the North
Caucasus and lower Volga Valley; and wet harvest weather in Western
Siberia.
Ukraine grain output for 1996/97 fell to a 33-year low. Production is
estimated at 23.1 million tons (not including roughly 1.4 million tons
of pulses and miscellaneous grains), down 28 percent from last year.
The weather was remarkably unfavorable for crops throughout the growing
season: a prolonged winter delayed both the resumption of tillering for
fall-sown winter grains and the sowing of spring grains, and the stress
was compounded by unusually high May temperatures and summer drought.
Wheat production is estimated at 13.5 million tons, down 2.8 million
from last year despite a 14-percent increase in area. Lower area and a
30-percent drop in estimated yield pushed barley production from 9.6
million tons in 1995/96 to an estimated 5.7 million in 1996/97.
Following persistent summer dryness in southern and eastern Ukraine,
nearly 50 percent of the 1.2 million hectares planted as corn-for-grain
was reportedly harvested as silage; corn-for-grain output is estimated
at 1.9 million tons compared to 3.4 million last year.
Kazakstan grain production for 1996/97 is estimated at 11.3 million
tons, up from 9.4 million last year. Severe drought had a major impact
on grain output for the second consecutive year. The dryness, however,
was less widespread this year than last. The western half of the prime
grain production region--including Kustanay, the top grain-producing
oblast--was especially hard hit, while crops in northeastern oblasts
escaped significant damage. Wheat production is estimated at 8.0
million tons, up 1.5 million from last year, and barley output rose 0.2
million to 2.4 million.
Kazakstan grain area dropped 9 percent in 1996 to 17.1 million hectares.
Area has fallen an average of 1.7 million hectares per year since
1993/94, as farms have converted less fertile land from grain to
perennial forage production. Barley has accounted for nearly two-thirds
of the decrease while the area sown to more profitable wheat has
remained fairly stable. A recent report submitted by the U. S. embassy
in Almaty cited several factors--in addition to weather and lower area--that
contributed to this year's below-average harvest.
o Soil fertility has fallen by 30 percent since 1965, according to
experts from the Kazakstan Agriculture Academy. Few farmers can
afford to apply adequate amounts of fertilizer in this time of
drastically reduced State subsidies.
o Autumn rain and early snow interfered with harvest in northern areas
and resulted in substantial losses.
o Farms continue to struggle with the chronic problems of poorly-maintained
equipment, tight fuel supplies, and inadequate storage
facilities. Crops were sometimes left to rot in the field or were
stored in crumbling silos.
o Russia periodically suspended delivery of electricity in order to
force payment of overdue electric bills. Farms were unable to
properly clean and dry harvested grain, resulting in additional
post-harvest losses.
Belarus grain production climbed to 6.3 million tons, up from 5.5
million last year, partly in response to a 140-percent increase in
estimated wheat area. Reported total-grain yield was up 6 percent.
Yields improved also in the Baltic States, reaching a five-year high.
Production for 1996/97 is estimated at 2.4 million tons in Lithuania (up
from 1.9 million last year), 0.9 million in Latvia (up from 0.7
million), and 0.6 million in Estonia (up from 0.5 million). The harvest
results were not as good in Moldova, where the grain crop suffered from
the second severe drought in three years. The estimated yield for both
winter-wheat and corn-for-grain dropped over 35 percent from last year's
levels, and total grain production is estimated at 1.6 million tons,
down from 2.5 million.
Grain production in the Caucasus region has grown by 14 percent since
1994/95 in response to increased area. Azerbaijan total-grain
production is estimated at 1.1 million tons; wheat production rose 15
percent this year to 0.8 million tons. Wheat output increased 40
percent in Armenia and comprises over 70 percent of the country's total
grain production of 0.3 million tons. The estimated production of wheat
(0.2 million tons) and total-grain (0.5 million) in Georgia has remained
steady over the past three years.
Higher yields and increased wheat area boosted 1996/97 grain production
in Central Asia. The reported total-grain output rose from 2.7 to 3.1
million tons in Uzbekistan and from 1.0 to 1.4 million tons in
Kyrgyzstan. Tajikistan enjoyed an estimated 17-percent year-to-year
increase in grain production, but maintains its position as the lowest
grain-producing nation in the former Soviet Union with output estimated
at slightly below 0.3 million tons. Turkmenistan was the only Central
Asian state whose harvest failed to surpass last year's level.
Estimated production fell 0.2 million tons, to 0.8 million, with some
reports suggesting even lower output.
Mark Lindeman, Regional Analyst
Phone: (202) 690-0143
E-mail: lindeman@fas.usda.gov
RUSSIA AND UKRAINE 1997/98 WINTER GRAINS
Winter-grain sowings in Russia for 1997/98 totaled 13.0 million
hectares, a drop of 14 percent from the previous year, according to
figures published by the State Statistical Committee. Meanwhile,
Ukraine winter-grain area rose 4 percent to a reported 7.4 million
hectares. Crop conditions are mixed: winter grains entered dormancy
under generally favorable conditions, but northern Ukraine was hit by
bitterly cold weather in late December which likely resulted in
localized winterkill. The North Caucasus region--Russia's prime winter-
wheat zone--had sufficient protective snow cover and the crop escaped
virtually unscathed.
Russia's winter-grain area dropped 2.1 million hectares from last
season's reported 15.1 million, and is likely at its lowest level since
1973, when harvested area dipped below 12.0 million hectares. Area
numbers for individual winter grains--wheat, rye, and barley--have not
yet been released by the State Statistical Committee. Wheat typically
comprises roughly two-thirds of total winter-grain area, which suggests
a sizable drop in winter-wheat area at a time when agricultural
enterprises throughout the former Soviet Union (FSU) are emphasizing
wheat production.
North Caucasus winter-wheat sowings got off to a good start last fall,
owing to adequate moisture and mild weather, and the crop received
abundant snow cover which protected it from cold-weather damage and
increased potential soil-moisture reserves. Conditions are not quite as
favorable in the lower Volga Valley, however; this region has felt the
impact of unusual dryness for the past two years and would benefit from
abundant precipitation to replenish soil moisture.
For the first time in five years, winter grains in southern Ukraine
enjoyed uniformly plentiful soil moisture during germination and
establishment. In late December, however, unusually cold weather swept
into Ukraine from Poland, and snow cover was patchy in northern and
central oblasts when minimum temperatures repeatedly dropped below -20
degrees Celsius between December 25 and January 5. Although some areas--
especially in northern Ukraine--have likely suffered greater cold-related
damage than occurred last season, last year's crop was negatively affected
by low surface-soil moisture in eastern Ukraine which hampered germination
and establishment. Official reports indicate that overall damage has been
lower this season despite localized damage.
Mark Lindeman, Regional Analyst
Phone: (202) 690-0143
E-mail: lindeman@fas.usda.gov
KIWIFRUIT PRODUCTION IN SELECTED COUNTRIES
Kiwifruit production in selected countries for 1996/97 is estimated at
984,500 tons, up 5 percent from 1995/96. In the Northern Hemisphere,
kiwifruit production is estimated at 562,100 tons, up 8 percent from
1995/96 because of significant increases in Italy, Greece, Korea, and
Spain which offset declines in the other countries. The Southern
Hemisphere crop is forecast up 2 percent from last season, to 422,400
tons, based on slightly larger crops in Chile and New Zealand.
In this article, area and production data are reported on a split-year
(October through September) basis for both Northern and Southern
Hemisphere producers. The Northern Hemisphere harvest begins in
October. In the Southern Hemisphere, kiwifruit is harvested beginning
in April of the second half of the split year.
NORTHERN HEMISPHERE
France: Kiwifruit production in 1996/97 is forecast at 77,000 tons,
down slightly from 1995/96. Planted area declined 3 percent from
1995/96, leading to the decline in output. Competitive imports from
Italy and off-season imports from Chile and New Zealand have limited the
expansion of kiwifruit production in France. The bulk of the crop is
grown in the southwest region of the country and the island of Corsica.
Greece: Kiwifruit output in 1996/97 is estimated at a record 50,000
tons, a 23-percent increase from last season, because of abundant
rainfall and favorable temperatures. The area planted to kiwifruit has
stabilized at 4,000 hectares and is not forecast to increase in the near
future because of low producer prices and difficulty marketing the
product. Opening grower prices this season in the Pieria district
averaged 110 drachmas per kilogram (US$0.46 per kilogram), near the
1995/96 average of 119 drachmas per kilogram (US$0.51 per kilogram), but
have since declined, ranging at present between 60 to 70 drachmas per
kilogram (US$0.25 to US$0.29 per kilogram). Production is projected to
increase over the next three to four years as some of the vineyards have
not yet reached full bearing.
Italy: Production of kiwifruit in 1996/97 is estimated at 330,000 tons,
up 14 percent from last season, but well below the record 1992/93 output
of 374,00. Italy remains the world's largest kiwifruit-producing
country, outperforming New Zealand by 70,000 tons. The large crop
estimate for 1996/97 is the result of generally favorable weather, with
the exception of some Northern Italian regions where pollination
problems during the spring resulted in small-sized fruit. Grower prices
in 1996/97 have averaged approximately 650 lire per kilogram (US$0.42
per kilogram), down significantly from last season's range of 700 to
1,000 lire per kilogram (US$0.45 to US$0.64 per kilogram) because of
this season's large output. For the next few years, Italy's kiwifruit
output is projected to remain around 300,000 tons, with area remaining
below 20,000 hectares.
Japan: Kiwifruit production in 1996/97 is estimated at 42,900 tons, a
12-percent decline from 1995/96 because of a significant reduction in
planted area precipitated by the declining competitiveness of
domestically-produced kiwifruit relative to imports. In the 1980's,
under the guidance of the mikan (tangerine) acreage reduction scheme set
by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries and local
cooperatives, many Japanese mikan orchards were switched to kiwifruit
production. This caused Japanese kiwifruit production to increase
significantly, reaching a record level of 68,900 tons in 1990/91. Since
then, both production and kiwifruit area have declined, reflecting the
saturation of Japan's kiwifruit market due to increased domestic
production, competition with imports, and slackening interest in the
product among consumers and retailers. By the year 2000, kiwifruit area
is projected to contract by approximately 15 percent and production is
estimated to decline approximately 9 percent.
Korea: Production of kiwifruit in 1996/97 is forecast at 13,000 tons,
up 7 percent from last year because of increased output from maturing
vines and larger bearing area. However, crop quality is reportedly
poor--smaller sizes and high moisture content--because of inclement
weather. Low temperatures during flowering and pollination, coupled
with dry weather during the growing season, resulted in the smaller
fruit sizes. Additionally, excessive rainfall during the harvest led to
rapid maturation and soft fruit flesh.
Portugal: The 1996/97 kiwifruit crop is forecast at 8,500 tons, down 3
percent from 1995/96 because of frost damage and heavy rains during the
bloom period. In addition, the use of inputs declined in 1996/97
because of low producer prices. Producer prices have been on a downward
trend since 1988 when they peaked at an average of 300 escudos per
kilogram (US$2.08 per kilogram). Prices in 1995/96 averaged about 85
escudos per kilogram (US$0.52 per kilogram); in 1996/97, prices are
estimated to average about 80 escudos per kilogram (US$0.49 per
kilogram). In the long run, further expansion in this sector is not
anticipated because of strong competition from other producing countries
within the European Union.
Spain: Production of kiwifruit in 1996/97 is estimated at 13,000 tons,
up 57 percent from the revised 1995/96 estimate of 8,300, despite a 3-
percent decline in planted area. Ideal weather throughout the growing
season, especially during flowering and pollination in the main producing
region of Galicia--resulted in an abundant crop of good-sized fruit.
Planted area in 1996/97 is estimated down slightly as some growers switched
to wine-grape production because of more favorable returns.
United States: Kiwifruit output in 1996/97 is estimated at 27,700 tons,
down 20 percent from last season. The downturn is due to an unusually
warm winter which did not provide enough chilling hours, coupled with
cool spring weather that extended the bloom period and increased the
average number of blooms per vine--resulting in significantly smaller-sized
fruit. Planted area was down slightly in 1996/97, to 2,752 hectares.
SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE
Australia: Kiwifruit production in 1996/97 is forecast at 5,400 tons,
down 10 percent from last season. The 1996/97 growing season has been
characterized by cool weather, especially in December, which slowed
fruit maturation. The cool weather has resulted in vine growth
competing with fruit growth to the detriment of fruit development. The
area planted to kiwifruit has stabilized at 450 hectares, less than half
the 1,128 hectares under cultivation during the peak year of 1987/88.
.
Chile: Although the area planted to kiwifruit is forecast down 11
percent in 1996/97, to 8,511 hectares, production is projected to
increase 3 percent, to a record 157,000 tons. The decline in area will
likely be offset by more vineyards reaching full-yield potential. In
the short term, planted area is expected to level off at 8,400 hectares;
production is projected to stabilize at about 157,000 tons, of which 80
percent will be exported.
New Zealand: Kiwifruit production in 1996/97 is forecast at 260,000
tons, up 1-percent from 1995/96, despite a slight decline in area
planted. The trend appears to be toward larger fruit sizes and better
quality fruit, largely due to intensive management of pollination,
thinning, and canopy activities. Weather throughout the 1995/96 season
was ideal--a combination of a cool winter and a warm summer with well-
distributed rainfall--resulting in good fruit sizes and quality. To date,
the 1996/97 growing season has been ideal in the Bay of Plenty, where nearly
80 percent of New Zealand's kiwifruit crop is grown. The area planted to
kiwifruit is projected to remain static because of tight producer returns,
stiff competition in international markets, and the press of urbanization
in the Bay of Plenty area. However, there has been a conversion to a new
cultivar from China, Actinidia chinensis, which is being grafted onto existing
Hayward vines (Actinidia deliciosa). Chinensis is closely related to the
common kiwifruit varieties, yet they are virtually fuzz-free and some
cultivars are pure yellow inside instead of the normal emerald green.
The chinensis variety is expected to comprise 25 percent of the export crop
within the next two to three years. Grower prices are forecast up slightly
from last year, to NZ$4.30 per tray (US$2.93 per tray, 1 tray=3.6 kilograms),
because of currently strong export demand.
____________________________________________
Kelly Kirby Strzelecki, Horticulture Chairperson
Phone: (202) 720-6791
E-mail: strzelecki@fas.usda.gov
CORN SITUATION IN SELECTED COUNTRIES
Corn production potential in the major Southern Hemisphere producing
countries for 1996/97 is projected to be favorable this season due to
increased area and yield prospects. Production estimates for Brazil,
Argentina, Indonesia, and Thailand's are projected to be higher than
1995/96, while South Africa's output is estimated lower. (See table 5
of this circular for area, yield, and production for individual
countries.)
Argentina: Corn production in Argentina for 1996/97 is estimated at
14.5 million tons, up 3.4 million or 31 percent from last season.
Harvested area is estimated at 3.3 million hectares, up 22 percent from
1995/96. Strong prices and generally favorable weather spurred
estimated area to the highest level since 3.4 million hectares were
harvested in 1985/86. Last year's excessive dryness increased crop
losses to above-average levels, while this year's losses are projected
to be near an average 13 percent. Generally favorable growing
conditions and increased fertilizer use has increased yield potential
this season to an estimated 4.39 tons per hectare, up from last year,
but below the record yield of 4.45 tons per hectare in 1994/95. Harvest
activity begins in March and continues into June.
Brazil: Corn production for 1996/97 in Brazil is estimated at 34.0
million tons, up 1.5 million or 5 percent from 1995/96. Harvested area
is estimated at 14.0 million hectares, up 0.2 million or 1 percent from
last year. Generally favorable weather prevailed throughout most of the
growing season; however, dry weather in Rio Grande do Sul from mid-December
to mid-January combined with temperatures about 4 degrees
centigrade above normal stressed the crop during grain fill. In other
southern states, January rainfall has been excessive in some areas
causing localized damage to the crop. Yield is estimated at 2.43 tons
per hectare, up from last season and slightly above the 5-year average
yield of 2.39 tons. Corn in Parana and Rio Grande do Sul will be
harvested soon and account for about 30 percent of the total corn crop.
South Africa: Corn production in South Africa for 1996/97 is estimated
at 9.5 million tons, down 0.7 million or 7 percent from last season.
Harvested area is estimated at 3.4 million hectares, up 0.1 million or 3
percent from 1995/96. Soil moisture at planting was the best in years
and has been regularly supplemented by good rainfall. Area this season
is more tentative than usual as any surplus production will have to be
marketed without the traditional Maize Board's safety net of a built-in
corn stabilization price. Yield is estimated at 2.79 tons per hectare,
down from last year's bumper level, but above the 5-year average of 2.41
tons per hectare. South Africa's weather is historically extremely
volatile and rainfall and temperature in February and early-March are
critical in determining final output.
Indonesia: Corn production for 1996/97 in Indonesia is estimated at 6.6
million tons, up 0.6 million or 10 percent from 1995/96. Harvested area
is estimated at 3.6 million hectares, slightly higher than the previous
season. The government policy of encouraging farmers to plant hybrid
corn is in full swing. Recent field trips by the U.S. agricultural
counselor in Jakarta indicate that farmers are eager to plant the hybrid
corn because they believe it can generate higher income. Yield is
estimated at 1.86 tons per hectare, up from last year and nearly
equaling the record set in 1991/92. The dry-season corn harvest is now
complete, while the rainy-season corn harvest will commence in April.
Thailand: Corn production in Thailand for 1996/97 is estimated at 4.0
million tons, up 0.3 million or 8 percent from last season. Harvested
area is estimated at 1.2 million hectares, up 5 percent from 1995/96.
Despite record high prices for corn last season, reports indicate that
area expansion this season was limited by a lack of farm labor. Yield
is estimated at a record 3.33 tons per hectare due to generally
favorable weather and increased inputs. Producers are using more high-
yielding hybrid seed and fertilizer this year due to reduced fertilizer
prices and attractive corn prices. Production potential was affected
slightly by heavy rains during the August - October period which caused
flooding and resulted in localized damage to the crops.
_______________________________
Timothy Rocke, Grains Chairman
Phone: (202) 720-1572
E-mail: rocke@fas.usda.gov
DECIDUOUS FRUIT AND TABLE GRAPE SITUATION
Production of apples and pears by the worlds's leading commercial
producers in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres is being reported at
normal levels, although moderately higher than last season. Apple
production for 1996/97 is estimated at 42.26 million tons, up 9 percent
from 1995/96. Pear production is estimated at 5.95 million tons, a 3-percent
increase from last season. Table grape production totaled 8.13
million tons in 1996, up slightly from 1995.
APPLES
Southern Hemisphere
The leading commercial apple producers in the Southern Hemisphere are
forecast to harvest a crop totaling a record 4.32 million tons during
the 1996/97 season (crop harvested in early-1997), up 5 percent from
last year. Current assessments indicate modest increases in Argentina,
Australia, Brazil, and Chile.
Argentina: Apple production in 1996/97 is forecast at 1.28 million
tons, up 11 percent from 1995/96 because of favorable weather. Apple
output in 1995/96 was revised upward--from 986,000 tons to 1.15 million--
because the amount of freeze-damaged fruit was overestimated. Old
apple trees are being replaced with new varieties using a higher-density
planting system. In 1996, producers replaced an estimated 430,000 trees
in Rio Negro and Neuquen provinces with new varieties--mainly Hi Early,
Chanar 34, Fuji, Braeburn, and Royal Gala--in response to export demand.
Australia: The forecast for the 1996/97 apple crop is up 32 percent
from 1995/96, to 369,000 tons. The upturn reflects an increase in
bearing tree numbers and excellent spring weather which fostered heavy
flowering and a good fruit set. Over 30 percent of Australia's apple
trees are not yet bearing. Of these, most are new varieties which bear
fruit at an earlier age than the old varieties. Most of the newer trees
are planted at a higher density which, over the next five years, will
lead to increased production per hectare. The new, popular varieties
include Pink Lady, Lady Williams, Fuji, and Gala.
Brazil: The 1996/97 apple harvest is forecast at 575,000 tons, 9
percent above last year's crop because of a slight increase in harvested
area and improved weather. The apple crop in the state of Santa
Catarina--which supplies over 50 percent of Brazil's annual apple
output--is projected up 15 percent with good fruit quality and sizes,
despite heavy rainfall during flowering. Approximately 70 percent of
the current crop is estimated to be export-quality fruit, compared to 50
percent in 1995/96. As a result, the amount of apples for processing is
forecast between 20,000 and 30,000 tons, compared to 120,000 last
season. The area planted to apples has remained fairly stable over the
past few years. However, output is projected to increase over the next
few years as apple trees planted in 1993 and 1994 reach full maturity.
Chile: Despite higher-than-normal temperatures during the spring which
affected the budding period, the 1996/97 apple crop is forecast up 3
percent, to 940,000 tons, because of a 6-percent increase in bearing
area. After several years of small increases in the total area planted
to apples, growers have boosted apple area significantly in the past few
years, principally in Region VII (Curico - Talca area) and Region VIII
(Chillan). A lack of alternative crops in these areas, coupled with the
potential of the new varieties, provided the incentive for many growers
not only to replace old orchards but to increase planted area. Because
of the high percentage of non-bearing trees, commercial production is
projected to increase to approximately 1.2 million tons within the next
five years.
Producers continue to diversify their orchards with plantings of the
new, popular varieties--Fuji, Gala, Jonathan, and Braeburn--and uproot
traditional varieties such as Red Delicious and it's variations. Red
apples constitute about 70 percent of total output and are grown mainly
for the European market and the Middle East. The principal green
variety, Granny Smith, is exported for fresh market sale in Europe and
the Untied States and processed domestically into concentrated apple
juice.
New Zealand: Apple production in 1996/97 is forecast at 480,000 tons,
down sharply from the record 1995/96 crop of 547,300 tons. Repeated
hailstorms over all growing areas during the growing season reduced both
the quantity and quality of this season's crop. Although total
production is forecast down 12 percent, production of export-quality
fruit is estimated down 16 percent or more because of hail damage. Few
orchards were untouched and large volumes of damaged fruit are being
processed into juice. The storms hit central Otago, Wairarapa, and the
major growing areas in Nelson and Hawkes Bay in mid-November. The major
growing regions experienced second and third hailstorms in late-December
and early-January.
The Government has announced a modest package designed to help fruit
growers, including direct financial assistance for hail damage. Local
assistance includes subsidized labor for growers who have lost more than
half of their crop; social service assistance for growers who are unable
to cover the cost of living; and grants of several thousands of dollars
for urgent technical advice. The hail damage also has prompted New
Zealand's Apple and Pear Board to release a new brand dubbed "Shining
Star". The new brand will be for fruit of a slightly lower standard
than their typical brand, meaning that it can have less color and a few
more blemishes.
South Africa: The 1996/97 crop is forecast at 675,000 tons, down 4
percent from last year's bumper harvest despite a slight increase in
area planted, to 20,950 hectares. Granny Smith and Golden Delicious
combined to account for nearly 65 percent of South Africa's bearing
trees. However, of the approximately 3.9 million non-bearing trees, new
varieties such as Gala, Royal Gala, Braeburn, and Fuji comprise about 46
percent.
Northern Hemisphere
The 1996/97 estimate of Northern Hemisphere apple production is 37.95
million tons, 2 percent higher than the October forecast (WAP 10-96),
and up 9 percent from 1995/96. The upturn since October reflects
larger-than-expected crops in China (up 700,000 tons, to 16.7 million)
and Italy (up 136,000 tons, to 2.1 million tons).
PEARS
Southern Hemisphere
Pear production in the Southern Hemisphere for the 1996/97 season (crop
harvested in early- 1997) is projected at 1.26 million tons, up 7
percent from 1995/96. Modest increases are forecast for Argentina,
Chile, and South Africa, offsetting declines in Australia and New
Zealand.
Argentina: Pear production in 1996/97 is forecast at 573,900 tons, up
12 percent from last season because of favorable weather and new
plantings coming into production. Approximately 1.0 million trees were
planted during the last few years replacing old orchards with new
cultivars. The predominant new variety is Abate Fetel, followed by
Asian varieties such as Nijisseiki, Shinseiki, and Hosui. However, the
dominant varieties produced in the country are Williams, Packham's
Triumph, Beurre Bosc, and D'Anjou.
Australia: The 1996/97 crop is forecast down 2 percent from 1995/96, to
155,800 tons because of a slight decrease in tree numbers and a decline
in average yields. The Williams crop, which is mainly used for
canning, was heavier, while the Packham's Triumph crop, which is grown
for the fresh market, was lighter. Tree numbers were down because of
the removal of older canning varieties, especially in New South Wales
following the closure of a cannery. The loss of traditional variety
trees has been compensated for by an increase in Nashi pear trees, which
are planted at a higher density.
Chile: Pear production in 1996/97 is forecast up 4 percent, to 262,000
tons, based on an increase in bearing tree numbers. Approximately 25
percent of Chile's pear area is planted with immature trees which will
lead to future production increases. Improved economic returns for most
pear producers during the past two seasons have resulted in improved
crop quality through better orchard management. However, Asian pears
(sand pears) continue to be uprooted, principally because of weak demand
in the U.S. market, and replaced with European pear varieties or other
deciduous fruits. There are over 36 pear varieties grown in Chile, with
Packam's Triumph and Beurre Bosc comprising the bulk of the export
varieties.
New Zealand: The 1996/97 crop is forecast at 16,000 tons, down 18
percent from last season, primarily because of recent hailstorms.
Approximately 30 percent of the export crop in the main growing area of
Nelson was damaged by hail. Hawkes Bay, the secondary pear-growing
region, also was badly hit by hailstorms. The Nelson area produces 50
percent of the New Zealand Comice crop, 80 percent of Buerre Bosc, and
over 90 percent of the Taylors Gold variety, which are all grown
primarily for the export market.
South Africa: Pear production in 1996/97 is forecast at 256,000 tons,
up 6 percent from 1995/96 because of a marginal increase in harvested
area. Two varieties of pears--Packham's Triumph and Bon Chretien--dominate
bearing tree production. However, new plantings of the Forelle, Beurre Bosc,
and Comice varieties are slowly redistributing production.
Northern Hemisphere
Pear production in the Northern Hemisphere in 1996/97 is estimated at
4.69 million tons, down slightly from the October forecast (WAP 10-96),
but up 2 percent from 1995/96. The downturn from October mainly
reflects a reduction in European output, especially in France and Spain.
TABLE GRAPES
Southern Hemisphere
The forecast for the Southern Hemisphere's 1997 table grape production
is 1.08 million tons, up slightly from 1996. Increases in Argentina and
South Africa fueled the modest growth.
Argentina: Preliminary assessments indicate table grape production in
1997 will total 50,000 tons, up 11 percent from 1996 because of
favorable weather in several growing areas. The main producing
provinces in Argentina are San Juan, La Rioja, and Mendoza. In Mendoza
Province, freezing temperatures and a lack of rain during the growing
season reduced production prospects. However, the weather was more
favorable in San Juan and La Rioja Provinces, where nearly 80 percent of
table grapes are produced.
Chile: Despite a slight increase in harvested area, table grape output
in 1997 is forecast to remain stable at the 1996 level of 865,000 tons
due to drought in most growing areas. A lack of snowfall last winter,
for the second year in a row, has severely depleted reservoirs in most
growing regions. Additionally, there are quality problems being
reported for the red varieties.
After a decline in planted area in 1996, table grape area is estimated
to have stabilized at approximately 46,000 hectares. Aging vineyards
are being replaced with new varieties that better reflect market demand.
Based on the average age of plantings, Chile's table grape production
will likely decline over the next few years.
South Africa: Table grape output in 1997 is forecast at 165,000 tons,
up 6 percent from 1996 because of favorable weather and an increase in
harvested area. South Africa is continuing to increase planted area in
response to growing domestic and foreign demand.
Northern Hemisphere
The 1996 estimate for table grape production in the Northern Hemisphere--
including the United States--is 7.07 million tons, up slightly from 1995.
Modest production increases in Greece, Italy, and Spain offset
declines in France, Mexico, and the United States. An estimate for the
1997 Northern Hemisphere crop will be released in October 1997.
_______________________________________
Kelly Kirby Strzelecki, Horticulture Chairperson
Phone: (202) 720-6791
E-mail: strzelecki@fas.usda.gov
APPLE PRODUCTION - Selected Countries
(1,000 Metric tons)
1994/95 1995/96 1996/97 1/
NORTHERN HEMISPHERE
NORTH AMERICA
Canada 553.5 590.8 560.0
Mexico 488.0 427.0 466.0
United States 5,216.6 4,801.3 4,732.8
Total 6,258.1 5,819.1 5,758.8
EUROPEAN UNION: 2/
Austria 3/ 286.7 324.2 308.6
Belgium/Luxembourg 527.7 513.9 300.8
Denmark 77.5 65.0 65.0
France 2,166.3 2,088.5 2,048.8
Germany 2,079.5 1,373.0 1,775.7
Greece 322.0 300.6 290.0
Italy 2,153.0 1,889.0 2,100.0
Netherlands 590.0 595.0 490.0
Spain 739.4 842.9 875.1
Sweden 70.0 66.7 66.7
United Kingdom 275.9 198.7 183.8
Total 9,288.0 8,257.5 8,504.5
OTHER EUROPE: 2/
Bulgaria 76.5 80.0 90.0
Hungary 610.0 353.0 475.0
Norway 45.3 52.6 49.0
Poland 1,441.0 1,288.0 1,500.0
Romania 525.0 500.0 470.0
Serbia/Montenegro 148.0 141.0 152.0
Slovakia 57.0 38.1 54.0
Turkey 2,095.0 2,100.0 2,100.0
Total 4,997.8 4,552.7 4,890.0
Russia 1,154.0 1,050.0 1,150.0
TOTAL EUROPE 15,439.8 13,860.2 14,544.5
ASIA:
China 11,125.0 14,008.0 16,700.0
Japan 989.3 963.3 936.2
Taiwan 8.5 9.5 9.9
Total 12,122.8 14,980.8 17,646.1
Total Northern Hemisphere 33,820.7 34,660.1 37,949.4
SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE 4/
Argentina 1,146.0 1,147.0 1,276.4
Australia 345.0 279.0 369.0
Brazil 483.2 527.4 575.0
Chile 860.0 910.0 940.0
New Zealand 480.7 547.2 480.0
South Africa 576.7 702.5 675.0
Total Southern Hemisphere 3,891.6 4,113.1 4,315.4
WORLD TOTAL 37,712.3 38,773.2 42,264.8
1/ Preliminary. 2/ Includes commercial and non-commercial
production. 3/ Does not include apples produced exclusively for
processing. 4/ For Southern Hemisphere countries, data refer to crop
harvested in the second year.
February 1997 Production Estimates and Crop Assessment Div., FAS, USDA
PEAR PRODUCTION - Selected Countries
(1,000 Metric tons)
1994/95 1995/96 1996/97 1/
NORTHERN HEMISPHERE
NORTH AMERICA
Canada 15.8 11.3 16.0
Mexico 30.0 28.0 27.4
United States 949.1 860.2 706.5
Total 994.9 899.5 749.9
EUROPEAN UNION: 2/
Austria 37.6 46.5 36.5
Belgium/Luxembourg 155.1 157.3 138.5
Denmark 7.8 7.4 7.5
France 343.6 308.6 313.0
Germany 418.7 419.5 436.0
Greece 73.0 55.5 65.0
Italy 1,022.0 958.0 1,048.0
Netherlands 140.0 165.0 130.0
Spain 543.0 469.0 571.1
Sweden 5.8 6.3 6.3
United Kingdom 25.8 34.8 38.8
Total 2,772.4 2,627.9 2,790.7
OTHER EUROPE: 2/
Bulgaria 33.0 21.5 21.0
Norway 3.2 3.3 2.4
Turkey 410.0 410.0 410.0
Serbia/Montenegro 73.0 67.0 72.0
Total 519.2 501.8 505.4
Russia 36.0 189.0 215.0
TOTAL EUROPE 3,327.6 3,318.7 3,511.1
ASIA:
Japan 431.1 400.3 429.4
Total Northern Hemisphere 4,753.6 4,618.5 4,690.4
SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE 3/
Argentina 491.0 513.0 573.9
Australia 155.2 159.2 155.8
Chile 236.0 252.0 262.0
New Zealand 19.4 19.5 16.0
South Africa 256.4 242.5 256.0
Total Southern Hemisphere 1,158.0 1,186.2 1,263.7
WORLD TOTAL 5,911.6 5,804.7 5,954.1
1/ Preliminary. 2/ Includes commercial and non-commercial production.
3/ For Southern Hemisphere countries, data refer to crops harvested in the
second year.
February 1997 Production Estimates and Crop Assessment Div., FAS, USDA
TABLE GRAPE PRODUCTION - Selected Countries
(1,000 Metric tons)
1994 1995 1996 1997 1/
NORTHERN HEMISPHERE
France 79.1 136.8 126.0 N
Greece 363.8 312.5 350.0 N
Italy 1,524.0 1,412.0 1,450.0 N
Japan 245.7 250.0 250.6 N
Mexico 155.0 160.0 150.0 N
Spain 300.8 391.7 431.6 N
Turkey 3,450.0 3,550.0 3,550.0 N
United States 733.6 773.7 759.6 N
Total No. Hemisphere 6,852.0 6,986.7 7,067.8 N/
SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE
Argentina 58.1 63.0 45.0 50.0
Chile 855.0 855.0 865.0 865.0
South Africa 143.5 156.0 156.0 165.0
Total So. Hemisphere 1,056.6 1,074.0 1,066.0 1,080.0
WORLD TOTAL 7,908.6 8,060.7 8,133.8 N/
1/ Preliminary.
February 1997 Production Estimates and Crop Assessment Div, FAS, USDA
TABLE GRAPE PRODUCTION - Selected Countries
(1,000 Metric tons)
1994 1995 1996 1997 1/
NORTHERN HEMISPHERE
France 79.1 136.8 126.0 N
Greece 363.8 312.5 350.0 N
Italy 1,524.0 1,412.0 1,450.0 N
Japan 245.7 250.0 250.6 N
Mexico 155.0 160.0 150.0 N
Spain 300.8 391.7 431.6 N
Turkey 3,450.0 3,550.0 3,550.0 N
United States 733.6 773.7 759.6 N
Total No. Hemisphere 6,852.0 6,986.7 7,067.8 N/
SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE
Argentina 58.1 63.0 45.0 50.0
Chile 855.0 855.0 865.0 865.0
South Africa 143.5 156.0 156.0 165.0
Total So. Hemisphere 1,056.6 1,074.0 1,066.0 1,080.0
WORLD TOTAL 7,908.6 8,060.7 8,133.8 N/
1/ Preliminary.
February 1997 Production Estimates and Crop Assessment Div., FAS, USDA
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