Crop Explorer - World Agricultural Production (WAP) Briefs - Southern South America


Oct 11 2024 | Argentina Barley: Production Up Due to Favorable Growing Conditions in Buenos Aires Province
Argentina barley production for marketing year 2024/25 is forecast at 4.9 million metric tons, up 4 percent from last month, but down 4 percent from last year. Barley yield is forecast at 3.92 tons per hectare, up 4 percent from last month, and matching last year’s yield. Harvested area is forecast at 1.3 million hectares, unchanged from last month, but down 4 percent from last year. (For more information, please contact Katie.McGaughey@usda.gov.)

Oct 11 2024 | Paraguay Wheat: Production Up Due to Favorable Growing Conditions
Paraguay wheat production for marketing year 2024/25 is estimated at 1.3 million metric tons, up 13 percent from last month, and 46 percent from last year. Wheat yield is estimated at 2.60 tons per hectare, up 13 percent from last month, and 37 percent from last year’s yield. Harvested area is estimated at 500,000 hectares, unchanged from last month, but up 6 percent from last year. (For more information, please contact Katie.McGaughey@usda.gov.)

Sep 12 2024 | Argentina Soybeans: Production for MY 2023/24 Down Slightly this Month but Up 92 Percent from Last Year
Argentina soybean production for marketing year (MY) 2023/24 is estimated at 48.1 million metric tons, down 2 percent from last month, but up 92 percent from last year. Soybean yield is estimated at 2.95 tons per hectare (t/ha), down 1 percent from last month, but up 70 percent from last year’s yield. Harvested area is estimated at 16.3 million hectares, down 1 percent from last month, but up 13 percent from last year. (For more information, please contact Katie.McGaughey@usda.gov.)

Aug 12 2024 | Paraguay Corn: MY 2023/24 Production Down Due to Decreased Area and Hot and Dry Weather in the Northern Growing Regions
Paraguay corn production for marketing year (MY) 2023/24 is estimated at 3.2 million metric tons, down 33 percent from last month, and down 37 percent from MY 2022/23. Yield is estimated at 4.27 tons per hectare, down 29 percent from last month and from MY 2022/23 due to hot and dry weather in the northern growing areas. Harvested area is estimated at 750,000 hectares, down 6 percent from last month, and down 12 percent from MY 2022/23. (For more information, please contact Katie.McGaughey@usda.gov.)

Jul 12 2024 | Argentina Wheat: Planted Area Higher as Summer Crop Harvest Ends
Argentina wheat production for marketing year 2024/25 is forecast at 18.0 million metric tons, up 3 percent from last month, and up 14 percent from last year. Yield is forecast at 3.00 tons per hectare, down slightly from last month, but up 6 percent from last year. Harvested area is forecast at 6.0 million hectares (mha), up 3 percent from last month, and up 8 percent from last year. (For more information, please contact Katie.McGaughey@usda.gov.)

Jun 12 2024 | Argentina Wheat: Increased Planted Area Boosts Production
Argentina wheat production for marketing year 2024/25 is forecast at 17.5 million metric tons, up 3 percent from last month, and up 10 percent from last year. Yield is forecast at 3.02 tons per hectare, down 2 percent from last month, but up 6 percent from last year. Harvested area is forecast at 5.8 million hectares (mha), up 6 percent from last month, and up 4 percent from last year. (For more information, please contact Katie.McGaughey@usda.gov.)

May 10 2024 | Argentina Corn: Production for MY 2023/24 is Down Due to Widespread Insect Infestation
Argentina corn production for marketing year (MY) 2023/24 is estimated at 53.0 million metric tons, down 4 percent from last month, but up 47 percent from the previous year (MY 2022/23). Yield is estimated at 7.57 tons per hectare, down 4 percent from last month, but up 42 percent from last year. Harvested area is estimated at 7.0 million hectares (mha), unchanged from last month, but up 4 percent from last year. (For more information, please contact Katie.McGaughey@usda.gov.)

Apr 11 2024 | Paraguay Soybeans: Production Up Due to Favorable Conditions During the Growing Season
Paraguay soybean production for marketing year 2023/24 is estimated at 10.5 million metric tons, up 2 percent from last month, and up 4 percent from last year. Yield is estimated at 2.95 tons per hectare, up 2 percent from last month, and up 6 percent from last year. Harvested area is estimated at 3.56 million hectares, up slightly from last month, but down 1 percent from last year. (For more information, please contact Katie.McGaughey@usda.gov.)

Mar 8 2024 | Argentina Cotton: High Heat and Dryness Lowers Yield
Argentina cotton production for marketing year (MY) 2023/24 is forecast at 1.60 million 480-lb bales, down 6 percent from last month, but up 37 percent from last year. Cotton production is forecast as the second highest, after the record in MY 1995/96. Cotton yield is forecast at 622 kilograms per hectare, down 6 percent from last month, but up 26 percent from last year. Harvested area is forecast at 560,000 hectares (ha), unchanged from last month, but up 9 percent from last year. (For more information, please contact Katie.McGaughey@usda.gov.)

Mar 8 2024 | Argentina Corn: Planted Area Increased
Argentina corn production for marketing year 2023/24 is forecast at 56.0 million metric tons, up 2 percent from last month, and up 56 percent from last year. Corn yield is forecast at 8.00 tons per hectare, up slightly from last month, and up 50 percent from last year’s yield. Harvested area is forecast at 7.0 million hectares (mha), up 1 percent from last month, and 4 percent from last year. (For more information, please contact Katie.McGaughey@usda.gov.)

Feb 8 2024 | Argentina Soybeans: Production Unchanged
Argentina soybeans production for marketing year 2023/24 is forecast at 50.0 million metric tons, unchanged from last month, and doubled from last year. Soybean yield is forecast at 3.03 tons per hectare (t/ha), unchanged from last month, and up 75 percent from last year’s yield. Harvested area is forecast at 16.5 million hectares, unchanged from last month, and up 15 percent from last year. (For more information, please contact Katie.McGaughey@usda.gov.)

Feb 8 2024 | Argentina Wheat: Late Season Rainfall Boosted Yield
Argentina wheat production for marketing year (MY) 2023/24 is forecast at 15.5 million metric tons, up 3 percent from last month and 24 percent from last year. Wheat yield is forecast at 2.82 tons per hectare, up 3 percent from last month and 24 percent from last year. Harvested area is forecast at 5.5 million hectares, unchanged from last month, and matching last year’s area. (For more information, please contact Katie.McGaughey@usda.gov.)

Jan 12 2024 | Argentina Cotton: Second Highest Production on Record due to an Increase in Planted Area Forecast and Plentiful Rainfall During Planting
Argentina cotton production for marketing year (MY) 2023/24 is forecast at 1.70 million 480-lb bales, up 13 percent from last month, and up 15 percent from last year. Cotton production is forecast at the second highest, after the record of MY 1995/96. Cotton yield is forecast at 661 kilograms per hectare, up 7 percent from last month, and up 5 percent from last year. Harvested area is forecast at 560,000 hectares (ha), up 6 percent from last month, and 9 percent from last year. (For more information, please contact Katie.McGaughey@usda.gov.)

Jan 12 2024 | Paraguay Soybeans: Production Up Due to Favorable Weather
Paraguay soybean production for marketing year 2023/24 is forecast at 10.3 million metric tons, up 3 percent from last month, and up 6 percent from last year. Soybean yield is forecast at 2.90 tons per hectare, up 3 percent from last month, and up 7 percent from last year’s yield. Harvested area is forecast at 3.55 million hectares, unchanged from last month, but down 1 percent from last year. (For more information, please contact Katie.McGaughey@usda.gov.)

Jan 12 2024 | Argentina Soybeans: Production Doubled from Last Year
Argentina soybean production for marketing year 2023/24 is forecast at 50.0 million metric tons, up 4 percent from last month, and doubled from last year. Soybean yield is forecast at 3.03 tons per hectare, up 4 percent from last month, and up 75 percent from last year’s yield. Harvested area is forecast at 16.5 million hectares, up 1 percent from last month, and 15 percent from last year. (For more information, please contact Katie.McGaughey@usda.gov.)

Dec 8 2023 | Argentina Rice: Planting is Complete with Area Up
Argentina rice production for marketing year 2023/24 is forecast at 860,000 metric tons (milled basis), up 8 percent from last month, and up 14 percent from last year. Rice yield is forecast at 6.78 tons per hectare (rough basis), down 1 percent from last month, but up 1 percent from last year. Harvested area is forecast at 195,000 hectares, up 8 percent from last month, and up 13 percent from last year. (For more information, please contact Katie.McGaughey@usda.gov.)

Dec 8 2023 | Argentina Sunflowerseed: Planted Area Forecast Down with Planting Almost Complete
Argentina sunflowerseed production for marketing year 2023/24 is forecast at 4.5 million metric tons, down 4 percent from last month, and down 10 percent from last year. Sunflowerseed yield is forecast at 2.05 tons per hectare (t/ha), essentially unchanged from last month, and matching last year’s yield. Harvested area is forecast at 2.2 million hectares, down 4 percent from last month, and down 10 percent from last year. (For more information, please contact Katie.McGaughey@usda.gov.)

Nov 9 2023 | Argentina Cotton: Higher Planted Area Forecast
Argentina cotton production for marketing year 2023/24 is forecast at 1.5 million 480-lb bales, up 18 percent from last month, and up 2 percent from last year. Cotton yield is forecast at 616 kilograms per hectare, essentially unchanged from last month, but down 2 percent from last year. Harvested area is forecast at 530,000 hectares (ha), up 18 percent from last month, and 4 percent from last year. (For more information, please contact Katie.McGaughey@usda.gov.)

Nov 9 2023 | Argentina Barley: Dryness in Buenos Aires Throughout Winter Lowers Production
Argentina barley production for marketing year 2023/24 is forecast at 5.0 million metric tons, down 6 percent from last month, but up 11 percent from last year. Barley yield is forecast at 3.57 tons per hectare, down 6 percent from last month, but up 24 percent from last year. Harvested area is forecast at 1.4 million hectares, unchanged from last month, but down 11 percent from last year. (For more information, please contact Katie.McGaughey@usda.gov.)

Nov 9 2023 | Argentina Wheat: Dryness in the Wheat Belt Lowers Production
Argentina wheat production for marketing year 2023/24 is forecast at 15.0 million metric tons, down 9 percent from last month, but up 20 percent from last year. Wheat yield is forecast at 2.73 metric tons per hectare, down 9 percent from last month, but up 20 percent from last year. Harvested area is forecast at 5.5 million hectares, unchanged from last month, and matching last year’s area. (For more information, please contact Katie.McGaughey@usda.gov.)

Oct 12 2023 | Argentina Sunflowerseed: Production Up Due to Higher Planted Area Forecast
Argentina sunflowerseed production for marketing year 2023/24 is forecast at 4.7 million metric tons, up 21 percent from last month, but down 6 percent from last year. Sunflowerseed yield is forecast at 2.04 tons per hectare, down slightly from last month and last year’s yield. Harvested area is forecast at 2.3 million hectares (mha), up 21 percent from last month, but down 6 percent from last year. (For more information, please contact Katie.McGaughey@usda.gov.)

Oct 12 2023 | Argentina Corn: Production Up 62 Percent from Last Year
Argentina corn production for marketing year 2023/24 is forecast at 55.0 million metric tons, up 2 percent from last month, and up 62 percent from last year. Corn yield is forecast at 7.75 tons per hectare, up slightly from last month, and up 53 percent from last year. Harvested area is forecast at 7.1 million hectares, up 1 percent from last month, and 6 percent from last year. (For more information, please contact Katie.McGaughey@usda.gov.)

Sep 12 2023 | Argentina Wheat: Production Down Due to Lower Planted Area
Argentina wheat production for marketing year 2023/24 is forecast at 16.5 million metric tons, down 6 percent from last month, but up 31 percent from last year. Wheat yield is forecast at 3.00 tons per hectare, down slightly from last month, but up 31 percent from last year. Harvested area is estimated at 5.5 million hectares, down 5 percent from last month, and matching last year’s area. (For more information, please contact Katie.McGaughey@usda.gov.)

Aug 11 2023 | Uruguay Soybeans: MY 2022/23 Record-Low Yield Reduces Production by 42 Percent
Uruguay soybean production for marketing year (MY) 2022/23 is estimated at 0.7 million metric tons, down 42 percent from last month, and down 78 percent from MY 2021/22. Soybean yield is estimated at a record low 0.64 tons per hectare (t/ha), down 52 percent from last month, and 77 percent from MY 2021/22. The previous record low yield was 0.77 t/ha in MY 1999/00. Harvested area is estimated at 1.1 million hectares, up 22 percent from last month, but down 5 percent from the previous year. (For more information, please contact Katie.McGaughey@usda.gov.)

Jul 12 2023 | Argentina Wheat: Production Down 2 MMT Due to Lower Planted Area
Argentina wheat production for marketing year (MY) 2023/24 is estimated at 17.5 million metric tons (mmt), down 10 percent from last month, but up 39 percent from last year. Wheat yield is estimated at 3.02 tons per hectare, up slightly from last month, and up 32 percent from last year. Harvested area is estimated at 5.8 million hectares, down 11 percent from last month, but up 5 percent from last year. (For more information, please contact Katie.McGaughey@usda.gov.)

Jun 9 2023 | Argentina Soybeans: MY 2022/23 Production Down 43 Percent from the Previous Year
Argentina soybean production for marketing year (MY) 2022/23 is estimated at 25.0 million metric tons (mmt), down 7 percent from last month, and down 43 percent from MY 2021/22. Soybean yield is estimated at 1.67 tons per hectare (t/ha), down 7 percent from last month, and down 40 percent from MY 2021/22. Harvested area is estimated at 15.0 million hectares, unchanged from last month, and down 6 percent from MY 2021/22. (For more information, please contact Katie.McGaughey@usda.gov.)

Jun 9 2023 | Argentina Corn: Production for MY 2022/23 is Down 29 Percent from the Previous Year
Argentina corn production for marketing year (MY) 2022/23 is estimated at 35.0 million metric tons, down 5 percent from last month, and down 29 percent from MY 2021/22. Corn yield is estimated at 5.22 tons per hectare (t/ha), down 5 percent from last month, and down 25 percent from last year. Harvested area is estimated at 6.7 million hectares, unchanged from last month, and down 6 percent from last year. (For more information, please contact Katie.McGaughey@usda.gov.)

Apr 11 2023 | Uruguay Soybeans: Production Down 63 Percent from Last Year
Uruguay soybean production for marketing year 2022/23 is estimated at 1.2 million metric tons, down 43 percent from last month, and down 63 percent from last year. Soybean yield is estimated at 1.33 tons per hectare, down 27 percent from last month, and down 52 percent from last year. Harvested area is estimated at 0.9 million hectares, down 22 percent from last month and from last year. (For more information, please contact Katie.McGaughey@usda.gov.)

Apr 11 2023 | Argentina Soybeans: Production Down 39 Percent from Last Year
Argentina soybean production for marketing year 2022/23 is estimated at 27.0 million metric tons, down 18 percent from last month, and down 38 percent from last year. Soybean yield is estimated at 1.80 tons per hectare, down 15 percent from last month, and down 35 percent from last year. Harvested area is estimated at 15.0 million hectares, down 3 percent from last month, and down 6 percent from last year. (For more information, please contact Katie.McGaughey@usda.gov.)

Apr 11 2023 | Argentina Corn: Production Down 25 Percent from Last Year
Argentina corn production for marketing year 2022/23 is estimated at 37.0 million metric tons, down 8 percent from last month, and down 25 percent from last year. Corn yield is estimated at 5.52 tons per hectare, down 7 percent from last month, and down 21 percent from last year. Harvested area is estimated at 6.7 million hectares, unchanged from last month, and down 6 percent from last year. (For more information, please contact Katie.McGaughey@usda.gov.)

Mar 8 2023 | Argentina Soybeans: Production Down due to Heat and Dryness
Argentina soybeans production for marketing year 2022/23 is estimated at 33.0 million metric tons, down 20 percent from last month, and down 25 percent from last year. Soybean yield is estimated at 2.13 tons per hectare, down 17 percent from last month, and down 23 percent from last year. Harvested area is estimated at 15.5 million hectares, down 3 percent from last month, and down 3 percent from last year. (For more information, please contact Katie.McGaughey@usda.gov.)

Mar 8 2023 | Argentina Sunflowerseed: Heat and Dryness Reduces Production
Argentina sunflowerseed production for marketing year 2022/23 is estimated at 3.8 million metric tons, down 14 percent from last month, and down 6 percent from last year. Sunflowerseed yield is estimated at 1.73 tons per hectare, down 14 percent from last month, and down 16 percent from last year. Harvested area is estimated at 2.2 million hectares, unchanged from last month, but up 12 percent from last year. (For more information, please contact Katie.McGaughey@usda.gov.)

Mar 8 2023 | Argentina Corn: Heat and Dryness Reduces Production for Late-Planted Corn
Argentina corn production for marketing year 2022/23 is forecast at 40.0 million metric tons, down 15 percent from last month, and down 19 percent from last year. Corn yield is forecast at 5.97 tons per hectare, down 15 percent from last month, and down 14 percent from last year. Harvested area is estimated at 6.7 million hectares, unchanged from last month, and down 6 percent from last year. (For more information, please contact Katie.McGaughey@usda.gov.)

Feb 8 2023 | Argentina Soybeans: Production Down due to Heat and Dryness Impacting the First Crop
Argentina soybeans production for marketing year 2022/23 is estimated at 41.0 million metric tons, down 10 percent from last month and 7 percent from last year. Soybean yield is estimated at 2.58 tons per hectare, down 8 percent from last month and 7 percent from last year. Harvested area is estimated at 15.9 million hectares, down 2 percent from last month and matching last year’s area. (For more information, please contact Katie.McGaughey@usda.gov.)

Feb 8 2023 | Argentina Corn: Drought Reduces Production for Early-Planted Corn
Argentina corn production for marketing year 2022/23 is estimated at 47.0 million metric tons, down 10 percent from last month and 5 percent from last year. Corn yield is estimated at 7.01 tons per hectare, down 7 percent from last month, but up 1 percent from last year. Harvested area is estimated at 6.7 million hectares, down 3 percent from last month and 6 percent from last year. (For more information, please contact Katie.McGaughey@usda.gov.)

Jan 12 2023 | Argentina Soybeans: Yield Down due to Dry Conditions
Argentina soybean production for marketing year 2022/23 is estimated at 45.5 million metric tons, down 8 percent from last month, but up 4 percent from last year. Soybean yield is estimated at 2.79 tons per hectare, down 7 percent from last month, but up 1 percent from last year. Harvested area is estimated at 16.3 million hectares (mha), down 1 percent from last month, but up 3 percent from last year. (For more information, please contact Katie.McGaughey@usda.gov.)

Jan 12 2023 | Argentina Corn: More Late-Planted Corn Will Lower Yield Potential
Argentina corn production for marketing year 2022/23 is estimated at 52.0 million metric tons, down 5 percent from last month, but up 5 percent from last year. Corn yield is estimated at 7.54 tons per hectare, down 4 percent from last month, but up 8 percent from last year. Harvested area is estimated at 6.9 million hectares (mha), down 1 percent from last month, and down 3 percent from last year. (For more information, please contact Katie.McGaughey@usda.gov.)

Dec 9 2022 | Argentina Wheat: Production Lower Due to Drought
Argentina wheat production for marketing year 2022/23 is estimated at 12.5 million metric tons, down 19 percent from last month and 44 percent from last year. Wheat yield is estimated at 2.34 tons per hectare, down 13 percent from last month, and 31 percent from last year. Harvested area is estimated at 5.35 million hectares (mha), down 8 percent from last month, and down 18 percent from last year. (For more information, please contact Katie.McGaughey@usda.gov.)

Nov 9 2022 | Argentina Wheat: Drought Cuts Production
Argentina wheat production for marketing year 2022/23 is estimated at 15.5 million metric tons, down 11 percent from last month and 30 percent from last year. Wheat yield is estimated at 2.67 tons per hectare, down 11 percent from last month, and 21 percent from last year. Harvested area is estimated at 5.8 million hectares, unchanged from last month, but down 11 percent from last year. (For more information, please contact Katie.McGaughey@usda.gov.)

Oct 12 2022 | Argentina Wheat: Production Down
Argentina wheat production for marketing year 2022/23 is estimated at 17.5 million metric tons, down 8 percent from last month and 22 percent from last year. Wheat yield is estimated at 3.02 tons per hectare, down 3 percent from last month, and 12 percent from last year. Harvested area is estimated at 5.8 million hectares (mha), down 5 percent from last month, and 12 percent from last year. (For more information, please contact Katie.McGaughey@usda.gov.)

Apr 8 2022 | Paraguay Soybeans: High Temperatures and Drought Damage First-Crop Yield
Paraguay soybean production for marketing year (MY) 2021/22 is estimated at 4.2 million metric tons, down 21 percent from last month and 58 percent from last year. Harvested area is estimated at 3.3 million hectares, up 18 percent from last month and 5 percent from last year. Yield is estimated at 1.27 tons per hectare, down 33 percent from last month and 60 percent from last year. Area changes are supported by recent satellite imagery analysis. (For more information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@usda.gov.)

Mar 9 2022 | Argentina Soybeans: High Temperatures Limit Crop Yields Despite Recent Rains
Argentina soybean production for marketing year (MY) 2021/22 is forecast at 43.5 million metric tons, down 3 percent from last month and 6 percent from last year. Harvested area is estimated at 16.0 million hectares, down 1 percent from last month and 3 percent from last year. Yield is forecast at 2.72 tons per hectare, down 2 percent from last month and 3 percent from last year. (For more information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@usda.gov.)

Mar 9 2022 | Argentina Corn: Rain Relief comes too Late for the Corn Crop
The marketing year (MY) 2021/22 Argentina corn crop area has expanded with late plantings. Corn area is now estimated at 7.0 million hectares, 3 percent higher than last month and 8 percent higher than last year. Corn production is expected to be 53.0 million metric tons, down 2 percent from last month, but up 3 percent from last year. Yield is estimated at 7.57 tons per hectare, down 5 percent from last month and 4 percent from last year. (For more information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@usda.gov.)

Feb 9 2022 | Paraguay Soybeans: Historically Dry Conditions Limit Yields
USDA estimates Paraguay soybean production for marketing year (MY) 2021/22 at 6.3 million metric tons, down 26 percent from last month and 36 percent from last year. Area is set at 2.8 million hectares, down 13 percent from last month and 11 percent from last year. Yield is estimated at 2.25 tons per hectare, down 15 percent from last month and 28 percent from last year. (For more information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@usda.gov.)

Jan 12 2022 | Argentina Wheat: Record Production
Argentina wheat production for marketing year (MY) 2021/22 is estimated at a record 20.5 million metric tons, up 3 percent from last month and 16 percent from last year. Area is estimated at 6.5 million hectares, the same as last month, but up 2 percent from last year. Yield is estimated at 3.15 tons per hectare, up 2 percent from last month and 14 percent from last year. (For more information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@usda.gov.)

Jan 12 2022 | Argentina Soybeans: Insufficient Rain Continues to Limit Yields
USDA forecasts Argentina soybean production for marketing year 2021/22 at 46.5 million metric tons, down 6 percent from last month, but up less than 1 percent from last year. Area is forecast at 16.2 million hectares, down 1 percent from last month and 2 percent from last year. Yield is set at 2.87 tons per hectare, down 5 percent from last month, but up 2 percent from last year. (For more information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@usda.gov.)

Dec 9 2021 | Paraguay Soybeans: Early Dry Conditions Limit Expected Production
USDA forecasts Paraguay soybean production for marketing year 2021/22 at 10.0 million metric tons, down 5 percent from last month, but up 1 percent from last year. Area is estimated at 3.4 million hectares, down 1 percent from last month, but up 8 percent from last year. First crop soybean planting is now complete. Yield is forecast at 2.94 tons per hectare, down 3 percent from last month and 6 percent from last year. (For more information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@usda.gov.)

Nov 9 2021 | Argentina Soybeans: Dry Conditions and Export Taxes Limit Planted Area
USDA forecasts Argentina soybean production for marketing year 2021/22 at 49.5 million metric tons, down 3 percent from last month, but up 7 percent from last year. Area is estimated at 16.4 million hectares, down 3 percent from last month and down less than 1 percent from last year. Yield is set at 3.02 tons per hectare, unchanged from last month, but up 8 percent from last year. (For more information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@usda.gov.)

Nov 9 2021 | Argentina Corn: Despite Seasonal Dryness, More Area Expected
Marketing year 2021/22 Argentina corn area is forecast higher based on better gross returns for corn and corn seed with a wide array of maturities. Corn area is estimated at 6.8 million hectares, 5 percent higher than last month and 6 percent higher than last year. Corn production is expected to be at 54.5 million metric tons, up 3 percent from last month and up 8 percent from last year. Yield is set at 8.01 tons per hectare, down 2 percent from last month, but up 2 percent from last year. (For more information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@usda.gov.)

Oct 12 2021 | Argentina Soybeans: Planting Season Begins for MY 2021/22
USDA forecasts Argentina soybean production for marketing year (MY) 2021/22 at 51.0 million metric tons, down 2 percent from last month, but up 10 percent from last year. Area is estimated at 16.9 million hectares, down 2 percent from last month, but up 3 percent from last year. Yield is estimated at 3.02 tons per hectare, similar to last month, but up 8 percent from last year. (For more information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@usda.gov.)

Sep 10 2021 | Argentina Wheat: Dry Conditions in West and North Lower Production Expectations
USDA forecasts Argentina wheat production for marketing year 2021/22 at a record 20.0 million metric tons, down 2 percent from last month but up 13 percent from last year. Harvested area is estimated at 6.5 million hectares, the same as last month but up 2 percent from last year. Increases in crop prices and export potential have encouraged Argentina farmers to plant more wheat this year. Yield is forecast at 3.08 tons per hectare, down 2 percent from last month but up 12 percent from last year. Lack of adequate moisture limits crop yield potential; currently soil moisture is less than ideal in western and northern regions where wheat is grown. Although the crop is planted, stand counts and tillering of the crop vary from field to field. Recent showers in part of the core planted area have helped crops in Buenos Aires, Entre Rios, and Santa Fe provinces. Timely rains in September and October are essential to maintain wheat yields. Harvest begins in November. (For more information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@usda.gov.)

Aug 12 2021 | Argentina Soybeans: Harvest Completed for the MY 2020/21 Season
USDA estimates Argentina soybean production for marketing year (MY) 2020/21 at 46.0 million metric tons, down 1 percent from last month and 6 percent from last year. Area is estimated at 16.6 million hectares, the same as last month, but down less than 1 percent from last year. Yield is estimated at 2.77 tons per hectare, down 1 percent from last month and 5 percent from last year. (For more information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@usda.gov.)

Apr 9 2021 | Argentina Corn: Dry Weather Limits Yield and Production Expectations
The marketing year (MY) 2020/21 Argentina corn area is estimated lower based on dry conditions caused by La Niña during crop establishment and development. Corn area is estimated at 6.1 million hectares, the same as last month and down 3 percent from last year. Corn production is expected to be lower at 47.0 million metric tons, down 1 percent from last month, and down 8 percent from last year. Yield is expected at 7.70 tons per hectare, down 1 percent from last month and down 5 percent from last year. Rains have delayed harvest progress; nationally, harvest progress was 12 percent as of April 8, according to Bolsa Cereales, with less than 10 percent of the crop harvested. This recent moisture will not provide any boost to yield in early-planted corn fields. (For more information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@usda.gov.)

Feb 9 2021 | Argentina Barley: Expanded Production Due to More Harvested Area
The 2020/21 Argentina harvested barley area is estimated higher than last month due to additional fields in barley feed and malting use, but lower than last year. The drying conditions of La Niña and some quick, hard freezes during the winter cropping season limited yields in the barley crop. (For more information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@usda.gov.)

Jan 12 2021 | Argentina Soybeans: Yield Reduced due to Dryness
The 2020/21 Argentina soybean area is forecast at 16.7 million hectares (mha), unchanged from last month and last year. Yield is forecast as 2.87 tons per hectare, 4 percent below last month, and 2 percent less than last year. As a result, production is forecast at 48.0 million metric tons, down two million tons from the previous forecast, 4 percent below last month and less than 2 percent below last year. The 2020/21 Argentina soybean area is forecast at 16.7 million hectares (mha), unchanged from last month and last year. Yield is forecast as 2.87 tons per hectare, 4 percent below last month, and 2 percent less than last year. As a result, production is forecast at 48.0 million metric tons, down two million tons from the previous forecast, 4 percent below last month and less than 2 percent below last year. (For more information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@usda.gov.)

Jan 12 2021 | Argentina Corn: Dry Weather Reduces Yield
Argentina’s 2020/21 corn area is forecast lower based on dry conditions caused by the lingering La Niña. Continued economic currency variability, inflation, and risk to late sowings may delay further planting. Corn area is forecast at 6.1 million hectares, unchanged from last month and down 3 percent from last year. Corn production is forecast at 47.5 million metric tons, down 3 percent from last month, and down 7 percent from last year. Yield is forecast at 7.79 tons per hectare, down 3 percent from last month and down 4 percent from last year. Satellite-derived vegetation analysis shows current conditions below last year and below average. (For more information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@usda.gov.)

Dec 10 2020 | Argentina Soybeans: Economic Uncertainty and Dry Conditions Lower Soybean Area
The 2020/21 Argentina soybean harvested area is forecast at 16.7 million hectares, down 1 percent from last month, and unchanged from last year. The production is forecast at 50.0 million metric tons, down 2 percent from last month and 2 percent below last season’s crop. Yield is forecast as 2.99 tons per hectare, less than 1 percent below last month but 2 percent above last year’s yield. With inflation running more than 40 percent in recent years, Argentine farmers fear the rate will further increase once post-pandemic growth returns. The peso’s value has fallen relative to the dollar during the pandemic, and farmers are concerned that if capital controls are lifted, further devaluation will occur. Despite higher global prices for soybeans, the 33 percent export tax on soybeans and their products, which allows exporters and processors to pay Argentine producers a low farmgate price. (For more information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@usda.gov.)

Dec 10 2020 | Argentina Corn: Crop Planting Drops with Dryness
The 2020/21 Argentina corn crop area is forecast lower at 6.1 million hectares, down 2 percent from last month and down 3 percent from last year, based on dry conditions caused by the ongoing La Niña. Corn production is forecast at 49.0 million metric tons, down 2 percent from last month, and down 4 percent from last year. Yield is forecast at 8.03 tons per hectare, down 1 percent from last month and down 1 percent from last year. (For more information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@usda.gov.)

Nov 10 2020 | Argentina Wheat: Dry Conditions Lower Production Expectations
USDA estimates Argentina wheat production for 2020/21 at 18.0 million metric tons, down 5 percent from last month and down 9 percent from last year. Area is estimated at 6.4 million hectares, 2 percent more than last month, but down 5 percent from last year. Yield is estimated at 2.81 tons per hectare, down 7 percent from last month and down 4 percent from last year. Lack of adequate soil moisture limited crop yield potential. Harvest typically begins in mid-November, however, in some fields, farmers have decided to leave the wheat crop for grazing or have collected grain for feed. In other cases, the wheat grain is being harvested for use in milling or for export but with less production than was harvested in each of the last four years. (For more information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@usda.gov.)

Nov 10 2020 | Argentina Soybeans: Dry Conditions Slow Planting and Lower Expected Area
USDA forecasts Argentina soybean production for 2020/21 at 51.0 million metric tons (mmt), down 5 percent from last month, but up 4 percent from last year. Harvested area is estimated at 16.9 million hectares (mha), 2 percent less than last month, but up 1 percent from last year. Yield is forecast at 3.02 tons per hectare (t/ha), down 2 percent from last month, but up 3 percent from last year. (For more information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@usda.gov.)

Oct 9 2020 | Argentina Sunflowerseed: Dry Conditions Limit Area
USDA estimates Argentina sunflowerseed production for 2020/21 at 3.0 million metric tons, down 12 percent from last month and down 8 percent from last year. Area is estimated at 1.4 million hectares, 13 percent less than last month and down 9 percent from last year. Yield is estimated at 2.14 tons per hectare, up less than 1 percent from last month and up less than 1 percent from last year. (For more information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@usda.gov.)

Sep 11 2020 | Argentina Wheat: Dry Conditions Reduce Yield
USDA forecasts Argentina wheat production for 2020/21 at 19.5 million metric tons, down 5 percent from last month and down 1 percent from last year. Area is estimated at 6.4 million hectares, unchanged from last month and down 6 percent from last year. Yield is estimated at 3.07 tons per hectare, down 5 percent from last month but up 5 percent from last year. (For more information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@usda.gov.)

May 12 2020 | Argentina Soybeans: 2019/20 Production Revised Down
USDA estimates Argentina soybean production for 2019/20 at 51.0 million metric tons, down 2 percent from last month and down 8 percent from last year. Area is estimated at 17.0 million hectares, up 1 percent from last month and up 2 percent from last year. Yield is estimated at 3.00 tons per hectare, down 3 percent from last month and down 10 percent from last year. Comparing previous years to 2019/20, the satellite-derived Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) supports an average yield of 3.00 tons per hectare for the season. Dry, hot conditions during the last half of February were followed by scattered showers throughout harvest. With harvesting over 65 percent complete, fieldwork can continue as rains stop and fields dry out. (For more information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@usda.gov.)

Apr 9 2020 | Argentina Soybeans: Dry Conditions Affected Late-Flowering Crop
USDA estimates Argentina soybean production for 2019/20 at 52.0 million metric tons, down 4 percent from last month and down 6 percent from last year. Area is estimated at 16.8 million hectares, down 1 percent from last month but up 1 percent from last year. Yield is estimated at 3.10 tons per hectare, down 3 percent from last month and down 7 percent from last year. (For more information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@usda.gov.)

Mar 10 2020 | Argentina Corn: Larger Area but Production Unchanged
USDA estimates Argentina corn production for 2019/20 at 50.0 million metric tons, no change from last month, but down 2 percent from last year. Harvested area is estimated at 6.2 million hectares, up 2 percent from last month and up 2 percent from last year. Yield is estimated at 8.06 tons per hectare, down 2 percent from last month and down 4 percent from last year. Extra planting has increased corn area and improved expected harvested area prospects. As of March 5, 2020, Bolsa Cereales de Buenos Aires reported 50 percent of the crop in excellent condition, 44 percent in normal, and only 6 percent in poorer condition. Rain during flowering and into seed fill has limited damage and moderated mid-season temperatures. Vegetation conditions observed by NDVI supports better-than-average yield expectations, but less than last year. (For more information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@usda.gov.)

Mar 10 2020 | Argentina Soybeans: Moderate Temperatures During Flowering Boost Yield
USDA estimates Argentina soybean production for 2019/20 at 54.0 million metric tons, up 2 percent from last month, but down 2 percent from last year. Area is estimated at 17.0 million hectares, down 3 percent from last month, but up 2 percent from last year. Yield is estimated at 3.18 tons per hectare, up 5 percent from last month, but down 5 percent from last year. Bolsa Cereales de Buenos Aires has reported 50 percent of the crop is in excellent condition and 43 percent normal as of March 5, 2020. Beneficial rainfall and moderate temperatures during flowering improved yields. Heavy rains in some fields in Chaco and Tucuman provinces led to localized flooding for a short period, reducing harvested area. (For more information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@usda.gov.)

Jan 10 2020 | Argentina Sunflowerseed: Area Decreased due to Early Dryness
USDA estimates Argentina sunflower production for 2019/20 at 3.2 million metric tons, down 3 percent from last month and down 16 percent from last year. Area is estimated at 1.6 million hectares, down 3 percent from last month and down 15 percent from last year. Yield is estimated at 2.00 tons per hectare, unchanged from last month, but down 2 percent from last year. Planting was slow at the start of the season due to dry conditions. Dry fields in parts of the provinces of Buenos Aires, Cordoba, and in the western sunflower regions slowed or stopped planting progress before rains finally came at the end of December. (For more information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@usda.gov.)

Dec 10 2019 | Argentina Wheat: Slow Harvest between Spring Showers
USDA estimates Argentina wheat production for 2019/20 at 19.0 million metric tons, down 5 percent from last month and down 3 percent from last year. Area is estimated at 6.4 million hectares, up 1 percent from last month and 5 percent from last year. Yield is estimated at 2.98 tons per hectare, down 6 percent from last month and 7 percent from last year. Yields are lower in central Buenos Aires province due to dryness at grainfill. Western wheat areas also have yields which are down from the early, higher yields in northern Argentina. Much of the crop relied on subsoil moisture during flowering and grainfill. Harvest is underway. (For more information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@usda.gov.)

Nov 8 2019 | Argentina Wheat: Subsoil Moisture Mitigates Crop Damage
USDA estimates Argentine wheat production for 2019/20 at 20.0 million metric tons, down 2 percent from last month but, up 3 percent from last year. Area is estimated at 6.3 million hectares, unchanged from last month, but up 4 percent from last year. Yield is estimated at 3.17 tons per hectare, down 2 percent from last month and down almost 2 percent from last year. Some early yields in the northern region of Argentina have come in better than expected, despite a long period of very low rainfall during July through September throughout the country this season. Favorable soil profile moisture during emergence and establishment supplemented crop needs into booting and through grain-fill. During flowering and grain-fill the crop primarily relied on subsoil moisture. Rains in October helped boost final seed development toward harvest. (For more information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@usda.gov.)

Aug 12 2019 | Argentina Wheat: Forecast Area Highest Since 2004/05
USDA forecasts 2019/20 Argentina wheat production at 20.5 million metric tons, up 3 percent from last month and up 5 percent from last year. Harvested area is forecast at 6.3 million hectares, up nearly 2 percent from last month and up 4 percent over last year. The increased wheat area is due to higher prices and excellent planting conditions. (For additional information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@usda.gov.)

Jun 11 2019 | Argentina Corn: Record Corn Area Expected
USDA forecasts the 2019/20 Argentina corn production at 50 million metric tons up 2 percent from last month and up 2 percent from last year. Harvested area is forecast at a record 6.1 million hectares, up nearly 2 percent from last month and up 3 percent from last year. Prospects for increased corn area are likely due to expectations of higher prices. Yield is forecast at 8.20 tons per hectare, up nearly 1 percent from last month, but down 1 percent from last year. Planting will begin in mid- to late-September depending on moisture and temperature conditions. (For additional information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@usda.gov.)

Apr 9 2019 | Argentina Sunflower: Production Revised Up
USDA estimates 2018/19 Argentina sunflower production at 3.6 million metric tons, up almost 3 percent from last month and up 2 percent from last year. Harvested area is estimated at 1.8 million hectares, up 1 percent from last month and up almost 6 percent over last year. Yield is forecast at 2.03 tons per hectare, up less than 2 percent from last month, still down nearly 4 percent from last year but up nearly 2 percent from the 5-year average. Sunflower harvest has reached 80 percent complete and has not been impeded by scattered rains. Sunflower can be followed by wheat in rotation, and a rapid sunflower harvest allows farmers ample time to prepare for wheat planting. (For additional information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@usda.gov.)

Feb 8 2019 | Argentina Wheat: Harvest Complete
USDA estimates Argentina wheat production for 2018/19 at 19.2 million metric tons (mmt), down less than 2 percent from December and up 4 percent from last season. Area is estimated at 6.1 million hectares (mha), down 2 percent from December and up 5 percent from last year. Yield is estimated at 3.15 tons per hectare, down 3 percent from December and down 1 percent from last year. The season started with adequate subsoil moisture during emergence and establishment, but rains stopped and only began again during the beginning of grain-fill. Dryness in Cordoba during jointing through booting reduced yield potential. Late-season rain impeded harvest in Santa Fe and in the northern regions of the country. (For more information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@usda.gov.)

Feb 8 2019 | Argentina Corn: Production Estimate Up 41 Percent from Last Year
Argentina corn production for 2018/19 is estimated at 46.0 million metric tons, up 8 percent from December and 44 percent from last season. Area is estimated at 5.5 million hectares, up 6 percent from December and 6 percent higher than last year. Area is increased due to late planting of early-season hybrids. The estimated yield of 8.36 tons per hectare is 2 percent higher than December’s yield and 36 percent higher than last year. Both early-planted and late-planted crops benefited from timely rains in areas affected by the early-season dryness in Cordoba province. Late January rains were positive in most areas; however, in Santa Fe and in the northern provinces the rains resulted in excessive soil moisture. (For more information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@usda.gov.)

Nov 8 2018 | Argentina Soybeans: Planting Progress Slowed by Rains
USDA forecasts 2018/19 Argentina soybean production at 55.5 million metric tons, down 3 percent from last month and up 47 percent from the drought-plagued 2017 season. Harvested area is estimated at 18.5 million hectares, down nearly 3 percent from last month but up 14 percent from last year. Yield is forecast at 3.00 tons per hectare, unchanged from last month, up 29 percent from last year, and up 4 percent from the 5-year average. Soybean planting has just begun and is proceeding slowly due to recent rains and cool temperatures. (For more information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@fas.usda.gov.)

Nov 8 2018 | Argentina Corn: Planting Proceeds Despite Showers
USDA forecasts 2018/19 Argentina corn production at 42.5 million metric tons up almost 4 percent from last month and up 33 percent from last year. Harvested area is estimated at 5.2 million hectares, up 4 percent from last month and the same as last year. (For additional information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@usda.gov.)

Jun 12 2018 | Argentina Soybeans: Late Rains Further Reduce Yield Prospects for 2017/18
Argentina soybean production for 2017/18 is estimated at 37 million metric tons, 5 percent below last month and 36 percent below last year. Area is estimated at 16.8 million hectares, down 1 percent from last month and down 8 percent from 2016/17. Yield is estimated at 2.20 tons per hectare, down 4 percent from last month and down 30 percent from last year. (For information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@fas.usda.gov.)

Apr 10 2018 | Argentina Soybeans: Drought Reduces Yield Prospects
Argentina soybean production for 2017/18 is estimated at 40 million metric tons, 15 percent below last month and 31 percent below last year. Area is estimated at 17.5 million hectares, down 3 percent from last month and down 5 percent from 2016/17. Yield is estimated at 2.29 tons per hectare, down 12 percent from last month and down 27 percent from last year. Dry soils slowed late first-crop and second-crop plantings until rains began in late January. Limited rainfall since then has lowered yield potential for the late-planted crop. Argentina soybeans had one of the most difficult seasons in recent history during 2017/18 due to limited rainfall and unseasonable warmth. Both Buenos Aires province and Cordoba province show lower satellitederived vegetation indices (NDVI) compared to previous seasons. (For more information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@fas.usda.gov.)

Apr 10 2018 | Argentina Corn: Continued Drought Lowers Yield Expectations
Argentina corn production for 2017/18 is estimated at 33.0 million metric tons, down 8 percent from last month and down 20 percent from last year. Area is estimated at 5.0 million hectares, 4 percent lower than last month and 2 percent higher than last season. The estimated yield of 6.60 tons per hectare is 5 percent below last month’s yield and 21 percent lower than last year. Both early-planted and late-planted crops have been affected by heat and drought. Despite rain in late January, inadequate rainfall during February and March has lowered production expectations. (For more information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@fas.usda.gov.)

Mar 8 2018 | Argentina Soybeans: Continued Dryness Reduces Yield Prospects
Argentina soybean production for 2017/18 is estimated at 47 million metric tons, 13 percent below last month and 19 percent below last year. Area is estimated at 18 million hectares, down 3 percent from last month and down 2 percent from 2016/17. Yields are expected to drop, averaging around 2.61 tons per hectare, down 11 percent from last month and down 17 percent from last year. Dry soils delayed the completion of first crop planting, as well as the planting of second-crop soybeans until rains finally fell in late January. Low soil moisture, heat, and dryness during flowering have reduced yield prospects for soybeans. (For information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@fas.usda.gov.)

Mar 8 2018 | Australia Sorghum: Heat and Dryness Reduce Production Prospects
Australia sorghum production for 2017/18 is estimated at 1.3 million tons, down 0.6 million or 32 percent from last month, but up 0.3 million or 30 percent from last year. Area is estimated at 0.5 million hectares, down 0.13 million from last month, but up 0.13 million or 35 percent from last year. Yield is forecast at 2.60 tons per hectare, down 14 percent from last month and slightly below last year. The area planted to grain sorghum is forecast to decrease because of higher planted area for cotton. (For more information, please contact James.Crutchfield@fas.usda.gov).

Mar 8 2018 | Argentina Corn: Dry Conditions Reduce Yield Expectations
Argentina corn production for 2017/18 is estimated at 36 million metric tons, down 8 percent from last month and down 12 percent from last year. Area is estimated at 5.2 million hectares, unchanged from last month and 6 percent higher than last season. The estimated yield of 6.92 tons per hectare is 8 percent below last month’s yield and 17 percent lower than last year. Both early-planted and late-planted crops have been affected by heat and drought. Rain received in late January partially alleviated dryness. Lower corn yields are expected as indicated by below-normal vegetation indices across Argentina. (For more information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@fas.usda.gov.)

Feb 8 2018 | Argentina Wheat: Harvest Complete
USDA estimates Argentina wheat production for 2017/18 at 18 million metric tons, up 3 percent from last month, but still down 2 percent from last year. Area is estimated at 5.6 million hectares, the same as last month and up less than 1 percent from last year. Yield is estimated at 3.21 tons per hectare, up 3 percent from last month but still down 3 percent from last year. Adequate subsoil moisture, particularly in northern Buenos Aires, La Pampa, southern Santa Fe, and southern Cordoba, benefited yields. (For information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@fas.usda.gov).

Feb 8 2018 | Argentina Corn: Pockets of Heat and Dryness Reduce Estimated Yield
Argentina corn production for 2017/18 is forecast at 39.0 million metric tons, down 7 percent from last month and 5 percent from last year. Area is estimated at 5.2 million hectares, the same as last month and 6 percent higher than last season. The yield forecast of 7.50 tons per hectare is 7 percent below last month’s yield and 10 percent lower than last year. Argentina’s corn crop has a wide planting window, and both early and late-planted crops have been affected by heat and dryness as crops approach reproductive stage. Localized rains at the end of January helped late-corn seeding, resulting in mixed conditions across regions. (For information, please contact Denise.Mcwilliams@fas.usda.gov.)

Feb 8 2018 | Argentina Soybeans: More Rain Needed to Finish the Season
Argentina soybean production for 2017/18 is estimated at 54.0 million metric tons, 4 percent below last month and 7 percent below last year. Area is estimated at 18.5 million hectares, down 1 percent from last month but still up 1 percent from 2016/17. Yields are expected to be good, despite the dryness. Forecast yields are averaging around 2.92 tons per hectare, down 2 percent from last month and down 7 percent from last year. Dry soils delayed planting of second-crop soybeans and late-sown first crop soybeans until rainfall arrived in late January. (For information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@fas.usda.gov.)

Jan 12 2018 | Argentina Corn: Rainfall Needed to Complete Planting in Northern Argentina
Argentina corn production for 2017/18 is estimated at 42 million metric tons, up 2 percent from last year and unchanged from last month. Area is estimated at 5.2 million hectares, 6 percent higher than last season and the same as last month. The estimated yield of 8.08 tons per hectare is 3 percent below last season’s yield and unchanged from last month. (For more information, please contact Denise.Mcwilliams@fas.usda.gov.)

Jan 12 2018 | Argentina Soybeans: Over 90 Percent of Crop Planted, Early Crop Flowering
Production for 2017/18 is forecast at 56 million metric tons, 2 percent below last month and 3 percent below last year. Area is estimated at 18.7 million hectares, down 2 percent from last month and up 2 percent from 2016/17. Yields are expected to be favorable, averaging around 2.99 tons per hectare, up slightly from last month but down 5 percent from last year. Limited rain in mid- and late-December delayed planting. January rainfall will determine if any secondcrop soy or late-planted first-crop soy can be planted as northern Argentina farmers wait for additional rain to supplement soil moisture. (For more information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@fas.usda.gov.)

Sep 12 2017 | Argentina Corn: Increased Area Boosts Production Forecast
USDA forecasts Argentina corn production for 2017/18 at 42.0 million metric tons, up 5 percent from last month and 2 percent from last year. Area is forecast at 5.2 million hectares, 6 percent more than last month and 6 percent higher than last season. The forecast yield of 8.08 tons per hectare is 1 percent lower than last month and 3 percent below last season’s yield. Wet soils could delay lateSeptember and October planting for early corn in Cordoba, Buenos Aires, La Pampa, and Santa Fe. Later-planted corn could comprise the larger share of the crop this season if rains continue in the core planting regions. With some fields expected to be planted to corn after a previous crop of corn, good management and the careful selection of fertilizers and pest-management chemicals will be required. (For more information, please contact Dr. Denise McWilliams, denise.mcwilliams@fas.usda.gov.)

Sep 12 2017 | Argentina Sunflowers: High Domestic Demand for Sun Oil Boosts Area
Argentina sunflower production for 2017/18 is forecast at 4.0 million metric tons, up 18 percent from last month and up 18 percent from last year. Area is estimated at 1.9 million hectares, 19 percent higher than last month and 11 percent higher than last season. The forecast yield of 2.11 tons per hectare is slightly below last month and 6 percent higher than last season’s yield. Planting is off to a quick start this season, especially in northern Argentina. Increases in area are expected throughout the main production regions and increased domestic demand for sunflower oil as well as the absence of export taxes on both the crop and the processed oil has encouraged Argentine farmers to plant sunflowers. (For more information, please contact Dr. Denise McWilliams, Denise.mcwilliams@fas.usda.gov.)

Jul 12 2017 | Argentina Corn: 2016/17 Production Estimate
Argentina corn production for 2016/17 is estimated at 41.0 million metric tons, up 41 percent from last year and 3 percent from last month. Area is estimated at 4.9 million hectares, 40 percent higher than last season and 2 percent more than last month. The estimated yield of 8.36 tons per hectare is less than 1 percent above last season’s yield and only slightly more than last month. With harvest of corn half finished, recent rains have delayed field work in Central Cordoba, Buenos Aires, and La Pampa. The harvest of lateplanted corn in northern Argentina is also behind. (For more information, please contact Denise.McWiliams@fas.usda.gov.)

Jun 9 2017 | Argentina Soybeans: 2016/17 Production Increased Despite Slow Harvest
Recent rain in late May and early June in northern Buenos Aires, La Pampa, and northern Argentina has slowed soybean harvesting. Production for 2016/17 is estimated at 57.8 million metric tons, 1 percent above last month and 2 percent above last year. Area is estimated at 18.7 million hectares, down slightly from last month and down 4 percent from 2015/16. Yields are expected to be above average, at 3.10 tons per hectare, up 2 percent from last month and up 7 percent above last year. The month-to-month increase is based on higher yields for later-planted soybeans. These laterplanted soybeans were expected to have fewer pods and branches resulting in lower yields; however, estimated yield increased due to ample moisture throughout flowering and into pod-fill. (For more information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@fas.usda.gov.)

Mar 9 2017 | Argentina Wheat: Higher Yields Increase Wheat Production
USDA estimates Argentina wheat production for 2016/17 at 16.0 million metric tons, up 7 percent from last month and up 42 percent from last year. Area is estimated at 4.9 million hectares, unchanged from last month and up 24 percent from last year. Yield is estimated at 3.27 tons per hectare, up 7 percent from last month and up 14 percent from last year.

Mar 9 2017 | Argentina Corn: Estimated Production Up Nearly 30 Percent from Last Year
USDA forecasts Argentina corn production for 2016/17 at 37.5 million metric tons, up 3 percent from last month and up 29 percent from last year. Area is estimated at 4.6 million hectares, up 2 percent from last month and up 31 percent from last year. Yield is forecast at 8.15 tons per hectare, up less than 1 percent from last month and down 2 percent from last year. Rains have maintained ample soil moisture reserves for the crop and plant health is generally good. Conditions are favorable for grain fill and most areas have had limited pest problems. (For more information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@fas.usda.gov).

Feb 9 2017 | Argentina Soybeans: Heavy Rains Reduce Area
Heavy rains from late December through the middle of January in core growing regions caused flooding and a loss of some soybean area; however, 80 percent of Argentine soybeans are in favorable condition. Argentina is forecast to bring in 55.5 million metric tons of soybeans for the 2016/17 season, 3 percent less than last month and 2 percent less than last year. Area is at an estimated 19 million hectares, down 0.45 million hectares or 2 percent from last month. Yield is forecast at 2.92 metric tons per hectare, virtually unchanged. Rains continue to replenish soil moisture in southern Buenos Aires province where drought was prevalent earlier. Planting is finished with over 43 percent of the crop in flowering to early pod set. Forty-seven percent of the crop is developing pods. First-crop soybeans account for 80 percent of Argentine soybeans. Second-crop soybeans, which are planted after wheat is harvested, account for the remainder. (For more information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@fas.usda.gov)

Jan 12 2017 | Argentina Wheat: Harvest Nearly Complete; Production Increased from Last Year
USDA forecasts Argentina wheat production for 2016/17 at 15 million metric tons, up 4 percent from last month and up 33 percent from last year. Area is estimated at 4.9 million hectares, up 2 percent from last month and up 24 percent from last year. Yield is forecast at 3.06 tons per hectare, up 2 percent from last month and up 7 percent from last year. Favorable soil moisture during emergence and establishment followed by timely rains as the crop was finishing grainfilling in central Argentina boosted yields. Harvest was complete before heavy rains occurred in late December 2016.

Aug 12 2016 | Argentina Corn: Forecast Area Up Nearly 30 Percent from Last Year
USDA forecasts Argentine corn production for 2016/17 at 36.5 million metric tons, up 7 percent from last month and up 30 percent from last year. Area is estimated at 4.5 million hectares, up 7 percent from last month and up 29 percent from last year. Yield is forecast at 8.11 tons per hectare. Incentives for corn production have increased substantially from last year: the government of Argentina has reformed export taxes, the peso devaluation has improved export potential, and lower prices for improved seed, fertilizer, and pesticides have improved profitability. In addition, persistent rain curtailed wheat planting, allowing more area for corn.

Jul 12 2016 | Argentina Wheat: Favorable Conditions for Establishment
USDA forecasts Argentine wheat production for 2016/17 at 15 million metric tons (mmt), up 3.4 percent from last month and up 32.7 percent from last year. Area is estimated at 5.0 hectares (mha), up 4.2 percent from last month and up 32.8 percent from last year. Yield is forecast at 3.00 tons per hectare (t/ha), up 4 percent from last month and the same as last year. Rain in April and May created excellent planting conditions for wheat sowing in early and mid-June, but continued wet weather in late June and early July has delayed planting completion. With sowing just over 60 percent finished, farmers are shifting between summer crop harvest and fall wheat planting as fields dry. While waiting to plant, Argentine farmers have observed increasing incentives for planting in the form of Brazil’s increased demand for wheat. With a drying trend expected for the next few weeks, planting will likely be completed with only slight delays. Early planted wheat is already established under good growing conditions.

May 10 2016 | Argentina Corn: Record Crop Forecast for 2016/17
Argentina corn production for 2016/17 is forecast at a record 34.0 million tons, up 7.0 million tons from last year. Area is forecast at 4.2 million hectares, 24 percent higher than last year. The forecast yield of 8.10 tons per hectare is 1.9 percent above last year. Export taxes were removed for most crops in December 2015 increasing profitability. Corn returns within Argentina are expected to remain high based on the recent tax policy changes, elimination of crop export restrictions, and strong devaluation of the Argentine peso.

May 10 2016 | Argentina Soybeans: Estimated 2015/16 Production Reduced Due to Rain
Argentina soybean production for 2015/16 is estimated at 56.5 million tons, down 4.2 percent from last month and down 8.0 percent from last year. Harvested area is estimated at 19.4 million hectares, down 1.5 percent from last month but 0.3 percent more than last year. Yield is estimated at 2.91 tons per hectare, down 2.7 percent from last month and 8.4 percent less than last year. Nineteen days of downpours in the first three weeks of April interrupted harvest in areas of Santa Fe, Entre Ríos, Córdoba, and Buenos Aires. Farmers had to wait for fields to slowly dry as an early cold front ended the rainy period. Harvest is over 24 percent complete but behind last year’s pace of 60 percent. Localized heavy rain and flooding has decreased estimated harvest area and likely lowered potential yields in Buenos Aires, Córdoba, Santa Fe, and Entre Ríos.

Apr 12 2016 | Argentina Soybeans: Rain Slows Crop Harvest
Argentina soybean production for 2015/16 is estimated at 59.0 million metric tons, up 0.9 percent from last month but down 3.9 percent from last year. Harvested area is estimated at 19.7 million hectares, down 1.5 percent from last month but 1.9 percent more than last year. Yield is estimated at 2.99 metric tons per hectare, up 2.0 percent from last month but 5.7 percent less than last year. April rains continue in most growing regions, raising the potential for a delayed harvest. Harvest is currently just under 25 percent complete. Early-harvested areas in Buenos Aires, La Pampa, and northern Argentina appear to have excellent yields. Localized heavy rain and flooding, however, may have lowered yields in Córdoba, Santa Fe, and Entre Ríos compared to last year. Dry weather and continued warm temperatures would allow the soybean harvest to proceed smoothly.

Apr 12 2016 | Argentina Corn: Harvest Underway and Estimated Production Raised
Argentina corn production for 2015/16 is estimated at 28.0 million metric tons, up 3.7 percent from last month but 2.4 percent below last year’s output. Area is estimated at 3.5 million hectares, slightly higher than last month and the same as last year. The estimated yield of 8.00 tons per hectare is slightly above last month but 2.4 percent below last year. Timely rains recharged soil moisture in February and early March after some dryness in January. Favorable moisture and extended warm temperatures allowed early planted corn to complete grain fill and dry down prior to the April rains. Early harvested fields in Buenos Aires, Córdoba, Entre Ríos, and Santa Fe are reporting above average yields. However, continued rain showers in April are slowing harvest progress for late-planted corn. The corn harvest is about 13 percent finished.

Mar 9 2016 | Argentina Corn: Harvest Underway and Estimated Production Unchanged
The 2015/16 Argentina corn harvest is just beginning on early-planted fields in the mid-central region of the country and will continue through June. Timely rains recharged soil moisture in February and early March after dryness in January, supporting the current production estimate of 27 million metric tons, unchanged from last month and last year. Area is estimated at 3.4 million hectares (mha), unchanged from last month and up 3.0 percent increase from last year. Yield is estimated at 7.94 tons per hectare, unchanged from last month and 2.9 percent lower than last year. Harvest is beginning in Santa Fe, Corrientes, and in central Entre Ríos provinces with yields reported as above average.

Feb 9 2016 | Argentina Soybeans: Rain Promotes Growth and Development
Argentina is forecast to bring in 58.5 million metric tons for the 2015/16 season. The estimate is up 2.6 percent from last month, but 4.7 percent less than last year. The harvested area remains the same as last month’s estimate, 20.0 million hectares, and 3.6 percent more than last year. Forecast yield is estimated at 2.93 metric tons per hectare (t/ha), 2.8 percent more than last month, 7.9 percent less than last year’s revised yield. Rains continue to replenish soil moisture in most regions giving rise to the potential for higher yields, but more rain will be needed in the northeast of the country and in the northwest of the province of Buenos Aires to keep these regions supplied with needed soil moisture. Sowing is complete and the majority of the crop is flowering or into pod set. Early sown soybeans in the Northern provinces, as well as in many of the core growing areas of Argentina, are already initiating pod differentiation to seed fill (R3 to R4, beginning pod to full pod).

Feb 9 2016 | Argentina Wheat: Area Up from Last Month
Argentina wheat production for 2015/16 is estimated at 11.0 million metric tons (mmt), up 0.5 mmt or 4.8 percent from last month but down 12 percent from last year. Area is estimated at 3.77 million hectares (mha), up 7.6 percent from last month but down 10 percent from last year. Estimated yield is forecast at 2.92 metric tons per hectare (t/ha), down from last month by 2.7 percent and down 2.0 percent from last year. Harvest is wrapping up and should be completed by the end of the second week of February. Some grain is lower in quality than expected with limited fertilizer use and rains this season. There are reports of farmers blending stored wheat with the newly harvested crop. The last of the harvest is centered in the province of Buenos Aires, where some later planting and rain showers have slowed harvest activities.

Feb 9 2016 | Argentina Corn: Planting Nearly Complete with Area Up
Argentina corn planting is concluding for the 2015/16 season and seeded area is forecast to be 3.4 million hectares (mha), a 6.3 percent change from last month’s 3.2 mha and 3.0 percent change from last year’s 3.3 mha. The larger corn area was encouraged by the elimination of taxes on corn exports in Argentina. The new policy – implemented in early December 2015 – has significantly improved corn profitability. Estimated production is increased this month to 27.0 million metric tons (mmt), a 5.5 percent increase over last month but unchanged from last year.

Nov 10 2015 | Argentina: Corn Area Prospects Increase
USDA forecasts Argentina corn for 2015/2016 at 25.6 million metric tons, up 1.6 million tons from last month, but down 0.9 million tons from last year. Area is estimated at 3.2 million hectares, up 0.2 million hectares from last month, but unchanged from last year. Yield is estimated at 8.0 tons per hectare, unchanged from last month but down 3.4 percent from last year.

Oct 9 2015 | Argentina Corn: Planting Intentions Are Less than Last Month
Argentina corn for the 2015/2016 season is forecast at 24.0 million metric tons, down a million tons from last month, and down 2.5 million tons from last year. Harvested area is forecast at 3.0 million hectares, down 0.1 million hectares last month and down 0.2 million hectares from last year.

Oct 9 2015 | Argentina Sunflowerseed: Planting Proceeding with Good Establishment
USDA estimates 2015/16 Argentina sunflowerseed at 3.2 million metric tons, up 1.3 percent from last year. Harvested area is estimated at 1.6 million hectares, up 14 percent from last month and up 11 percent from last year.

Apr 9 2015 | Argentina Corn: Beneficial Rain Improves Late Planted Corn
Argentina corn production for 2014/15 is estimated at 24 million metric tons, up 2.1 percent from last month, but down 7.7 percent from last year. Area is estimated at 2.95 million hectares, unchanged from last month, but down 13 percent from last year. Yield is estimated at 8.14 tons per hectare, up 2.1 percent from last month and up 6.4 percent from last year. Later-planted corn in the grain-fill stage will likely benefit from recent showers, especially in areas normally too dry at this time of year during the last stages of crop maturation. There were concerns that high rainfall during February and early March would result in increased crop disease levels, but yields so far have been favorable. Early planted corn yields are higher than normal, with approximately 12 percent of the crop harvested. Harvesting is occurring mostly in the northern regions and in the north-central area of the province of Cordoba. Most of these areas were planted in late December with excellent weather throughout the tasseling and pollination process and into grain fill. Harvesting has started in the east-central part of Entre Rios and into north-central areas of Santa Fe with good results. Northern La Pampa and the western portion of Buenos Aires have yields that are average to very good, above original expectations of the farmers. Very late-planted corn in these regions also appears in good to excellent condition but will not be harvested for several days, when dry down of the crop can place harvested grain at moisture levels needed to preserve quality of the crop in silo bags. Corn not yet harvested in Central Buenos Aires is reportedly around 20 to 22 percent moisture content, above optimum moisture content for storage. (For more information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@fas.usda.gov).

Mar 10 2015 | Argentina Soybeans: Rain Improves Yield Prospects
Argentina’s 2014/15 soybean is estimated at 56.0 million metric tons, unchanged from last month, but up 3.7 percent from last year. Area is estimated at 19.8 million hectares, down 1.0 percent from last month, but unchanged from last year. Yield is estimated at 2.83 tons per hectare, up 1.1 percent from last month and up 3.7 percent from last year. Recent rains in southern Buenos Aires and La Pampa have improved soil moisture conditions resulting in improved yield prospects. (For more information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@fas.usda.gov).

Mar 10 2015 | Argentina Corn: Recent Rains Improve Crop
Argentina’s 2014/15 corn crop is forecast at 23.5 million metric tons, up 2.2 percent from last month, but down 9.6 percent from last year. Recent rains have bolstered crop conditions in Buenos Aires, La Pampa, Western Cordoba, and in northern and western fringes of the agriculture regions. Area is estimated at 2.95 million hectares, down 1.7 percent from last month, and down 13 percent from last year. Yield is estimated at 8.00 tons per hectare, up 3.9 percent from last month and up 4.2 percent from last year. Planting in the northern provinces is finished. Recent rains have delayed early crop harvests. Corn condition generally is good, with much of the early planted crop developing through seed fill. Later planted corn is going through pollination and beginning seed fill. Soil moisture supplies for the later planted corn, about 55 percent of the crop, is excellent and was good throughout development. Early planted corn, about 45 percent of the crop, is approximately 10 percent harvested with fairly good yields. (For more information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@fas.usda.gov).

Feb 10 2015 | Argentina Wheat: Harvest Closes with Mixed Results
USDA forecasts Argentina wheat production for 2014/15 at 12.5 million metric tons, up 0.5 million tons or 4.2 percent from last month and 19 percent from last year. Area is estimated at 4.2 million hectares, up 2.4 percent from last month and up 20 percent from last year. Yield is forecast at 2.98 tons per hectare, up 1.7 percent from last month but down 0.8 percent from last year. Fluctuating temperatures throughout the season, sporadic rainfall, and uneven stand establishment all contributed to the final estimate of area harvested and yield as well as to the grain quality. The central and southern growing regions experienced a warmer than normal season punctuated with brief episodes of cold weather, hastening the wheat pollination phase and reducing grain yield and quality. Some areas in Santa Fe, Entre Rios, and Buenos Aires had intense rainfall during much of the season, resulting in localized disease and loss of nitrogen fertility from fields prior to pollination and grain fill. In the northern wheat regions as well as into Cordoba, dry conditions prevailed, negatively affecting pollination and subsequent grain fill. (For additional information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@fas.usda.gov.)

Feb 10 2015 | Argentina Soybeans: Recent Rains Replenish Soil Moisture, Encourages Planting
USDA estimates the 2014/15 Argentina soybean production at 56.0 million metric tons, up 1.8 percent from last month and 3.7 percent from last year. Harvested area is estimated at 20 million hectares, unchanged from last month but up 1 percent from last year. Yield is estimated at 2.80 metric tons per hectare, up 1.8 percent from last month and 2.7 percent from last year. Slow planting progress was reported in the north western part of the country due to dryness. Recent scattered rains increased soil moisture for crop emergence and establishment in some regions but additional favorable rain is needed to ensure heathy, vigorous crop stands in western and southern regions. Soybeans in southern Cordoba are experiencing good growth, as recent timely rainfall aided plants entering pod set. Progress is slower in the province of Santa Fe, where second-crop soybeans are slow to reach a complete canopy cover due to excessive moisture on no-tilled wheat stubble where soybeans were directly seeded. High rainfall in northern areas resulted in some crop disease showing up in fields with heavier soils. (For additional information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@fas.usda.gov.)

Feb 10 2015 | Argentina Corn: Recent Rain Showers Promote Crop Progress
The 2014/15 Argentina corn crop is forecast at 23.0 million metric tons, a 4.5 percent increase from last month but a 12 percent drop from last year. Recent rains have reversed the dryness in the south, including central Buenos Aires, La Pampa, and western Cordoba and in the northern and western fringes of the agricultural regions. Harvested area forecasts remain unchanged from last month at 3.0 million hectares, a 12 percent drop from last year. Yield is forecast at 7.67 tons per hectare, up 4.6 percent from last month and 0.3 percent from last year. Only about half the corn crop was seeded by the first week of December and crop stage varies across the country. The crop condition is reported as excellent around the delegation of Marco Juárez within the province of Cordoba, where some corn was planted later and is just now entering the late vegetative stage into pollination. In the drier region of Entre Rios, early planted corn is ready for harvest. (For additional information, please contact Denise.McWilliams@fas.usda.gov.)

Dec 10 2014 | Argentina Corn: Crop Pricing and Rains Hamper Planting Progress and Crop
The 2014/15 Argentina corn crop is forecast at 22 million metric tons, a 4.3 percent drop from last month and 12 percent from last year. Recent rains have hampered planting, as have low corn prices and more attractive alternatives to land use for Argentine farmers. About half of the corn crop had been seeded as of the first week of December. In mid-November, unexpected hail affected some early planted corn in Cordoba and placed an early damper on planting plans for the year. Area is forecast at 3.0 million hectares for this season, down 7.7 percent from last month, and 12 percent from last year. Yield is estimated at 7.33 tons per hectare, up 3.6 percent from last month but down 0.3 percent from last year. Yield reduction is attributed to adverse weather conditions in November into December, which affected early planted crops. In an effort to stabilize yield, many farmers have shifted to later-planted corn, which flowers after the most intense heat of the summer. Later-planted corn, however, is also harvested later, usually at higher moisture content.

Jul 11 2013 | Paraguay Soybeans: 2012/13 Harvest Production Surpasses Expectations
Paraguay’s harvest for the 2012/13 soybeans is estimated at 9.37 million metric tons, 12 percent more than last month and 132 percent more than the 2011/12 drought-affected crop. An estimated 3.16 million hectares, 5 percent more than last month and 7 percent more than 2011/12, was harvested. The increased area is attributed to expanded large farmer and group holdings along with extremely good early and seasonal weather conditions. Yield is forecast at 2.97 tons per hectare, 7 percent more than last month estimate and 117 percent more than the previous year. Yields benefitted from timely rains, warm temperatures, and favorable harvest weather, which helped Paraguay to quickly get beans out of the field and into storage.

Jul 11 2013 | Argentina Soybeans: 2012/13 Soy Finishes with Lower than Expected Area Harvested
Argentina 2012/13 soybean production is estimated at 50.2 million metric tons, 2 percent less than last month but 25 percent more than 2011/12. Production was harvested from an estimated 18.9 million hectares, down 2 percent from last month. Yield is estimated at 2.66 tons per hectare, about the same as last month. Dry conditions have allowed for rapid harvest in the last two weeks. Some yields, especially in the northern growing regions, continued to not hit early season expectations and remained moderate due to earlier heat and dry conditions during seed fill. Southern Cordoba and Northwest Buenos Aires province fields showed average to lower yields as expected due to early-season dryness followed by heavy rains at the end of January and into February, decreasing overall harvested area and production.

Jul 11 2013 | Argentina Wheat: Weather Conditions Limited 2012/13 Production
The USDA forecasts Argentine wheat production for 2012/13 at 10 million tons, down 9 percent from last month and down 35 percent from 2011/12. Area is estimated at 3.5 million hectares, down 5 percent from last month and down 32 percent from 2011/12. Yield is forecast at 2.86 tons per hectare, down 4 percent from last month and down 5 percent from 2011/12. Heavy rains following the early dry conditions in the Pampas affected wheat production. Some areas such as portions of Rosario and in the northwest portions of the province of Buenos Aires received more than twice the expected rainfall for the season. Later, field ponding and soil saturation conditions allowed disease to strike the heavily flooded fields where the wheat crop remained standing. Additionally, it slowed seed head maturation and lowered yield potential. In cases where timely spraying could not be achieved to prevent disease introduction, the yield and production suffered.

Aug 12 2013 | Argentina: Dry Weather Hinders Planting
USDA forecasts Argentine wheat production for 2013/14 at 12 million tons, down 1 million tons or 8 percent from last month but up 20 percent from last year. Area is estimated at 3.9 million hectares, down 7 percent from last month but up 11 percent from last year. Yield is forecast at 3.08 tons per hectare, down less than a percent from last month but up 8 percent from last year.

Sep 12 2013 | Argentine Corn: Rain Needed Before the Main Planting Season Begins
The USDA forecasts Argentine corn production for 2013/14 at 26.0 million metric tons, 3.7 percent below last month and 1.9 percent below last year. The harvested area is forecast at 3.37 million hectares, 3.7 percent lower than last month and 16 percent less than last year. Yield is estimated at 7.72 tons per hectare, about the same as last month, and 16 percent higher than last year.

Nov 8 2013 | Argentina Sorghum: Estimated Production Reduced Due to Lower Planted Area
The USDA forecasts Argentine sorghum production for 2013/14 at 4.6 million metric tons, 15 percent below September’s estimate and 8 percent below the 5.0 million tons grown last year. Harvested area is estimated at 1.0 million hectares, 17 percent lower than September’s estimate and 13 percent less than last year. Yield is estimated at 4.60 tons per hectare, 2.0 percent higher than September’s estimate, and 5.8 percent higher than last year. Argentine producers are facing low returns due to a drop in crop prices and an unfavorable exchange rate. Many farmers will likely switch from sorghum to soybeans due to its profitability and marketability. A larger world production of feed grains from the northern hemisphere is providing strong competition for Argentine sorghum and reducing export demand.

Sep 11 2014 | Argentina Corn: Less Area Expected in 2014/15
USDA forecasts the 2014/15 Argentine corn crop at 23 million metric tons, down 11.5 percent from last month and down 8.0 percent from last year. Area is estimated at 3.25 million hectares, down 11 percent from last month and down 4.4 percent from last year. Less corn is expected to be planted in the upcoming season due to unfavorable prices, increasing freight and labor costs, very limited or no government-subsidized farm loans, export controls on corn, and low liquidity of the crop compared to alternatives such as soybeans. Yield is estimated at 7.08 tons per hectare, down from 7.12 tons last month and 7.35 last year.

Dec 10 2013 | Argentina Soybeans: Area Rises on Limited Planted Sunflower and Corn
Argentine farmers are forecast to harvest 54.5 million tons of soybeans for the 2013/14 season, 1.9 percent more than last month and 11 percent more than last year. Harvested area is estimated at 20.0 million hectares (MHa), 1.5 percent more than last month and 3.1 percent more than last year. Yield is forecast to be 2.73 tons per hectare, about the same as last month and 7.2 percent more than last year. Scattered rains have promoted crop emergence and establishment in some regions, but more rainfall is needed. Area for soy this season is raised based on limited sunflower and corn plantings due to dry weather during early plantings and lower returns expected this year for these crops. Sowing progress for soy has reached just over 50 percent at the end of November with about 10 MHa have been planted. Planting pace is brisk. Moisture received in the central portion of the core planting region has stimulated planting and good emergence, but other regions need additional rain.

Dec 10 2013 | Argentina Sunflower: Plantings Limited Due to Early Dryness
Argentine farmers are forecast to harvest 2.7 million metric tons of sunflowers for the 2013/14 season, 11 percent less than estimated last month and 13 percent less than last year. Rains, particularly in the provinces of Cordoba and Buenos Aires, were late in refreshing soil moisture needs. This hampered sunflower sowings resulting in an area forecast at 1.48 million hectares down 10 percent as compared to the 1.65 million expected last month and down 8.8 percent year to year. Yield is also expected to drop to 1.82 tons per hectare, a 1.0 percent drop from last month and 4.5 percent less than last year. Early, cool temperatures and dry soils slowed planting, reducing planned sowing in parts of the country.

Jan 10 2014 | Argentina Cotton: Recent Rains Beneficial After Hot, Dry Conditions
Argentina cotton production for 2013/14 is now estimated at 1.13 million bales, up 25 percent from last month and 48 percent above last year’s production. The 2013/14 season is still well below the record cotton production of Argentina seen in 1995/96 with a record 2.09 million bales. Harvested area is estimated at 0.51 million hectares, up 0.11 million or 28 percent from last month and up 46 percent from last year. A combination of hot and dry weather, lower global pricing for corn and soybeans due to expected good supplies, Argentine taxes on corn and soy commodities, and fields not planted earlier to corn or sunflowers may have contributed to an increase in cotton area this season in Argentina. Yield is estimated at 480 kilograms tons per hectare, a 2.0 percent decrease from last month and 1.5 percent above last year.

Jan 10 2014 | Argentina Corn: December High Temperatures Reduce Production
Argentina corn production for 2013/14 is estimated at 25 million metric tons, a 3.8 percent drop from last month and a 5.7 percent drop from last year. Area is estimated at 3.4 million hectares, 1.4 percent less than last month and 15 percent less than last year. Yield is forecast at 7.35 tons per hectare, a drop of 2.4 percent from last month and lowered 11 percent from last year, when corn prices encouraged more planting in Argentina. Argentina’s corn crop had some recovery from the hot and dry conditions experienced during December with recent rains replenishing soil moisture on about 70 percent of the planted crop. Dry conditions slowed crop planting and the Ministry of Agriculture estimates only 77 percent of the crop was planted by the end of December.

Feb 10 2014 | Argentina Corn: Unfavorable Heat During the Reproductive Stage
The 2013/14 Argentine corn crop is forecast at 24.0 million metric tons, down 4.0 percent from last month and down 9.4 percent from last year. Area is estimated at 3.3 million hectares, a drop of 2.9 percent from last month and 18 percent less than last year. Yield is forecast at 7.27 tons per hectare, down 1.1 percent from last month but up 9.8 percent from last year. Eleven days of very high temperatures with little or no rain in mid-December followed by hot and dry conditions throughout much of January have affected most of the Argentina’s early-planted corn. Much of this early corn was just going into flowering during the heat stress conditions, which will likely have a considerable effect on potential yield. Dryness caused additional stress for corn in southern Cordoba, La Pampa, and the western and central-south regions of Buenos Aires. Over 50 percent of the corn in Argentina this year was planted later than usual due to dry conditions early in the season. This later-planted corn reportedly helps to stabilize overall corn yield since the crop does not flower during the most intense heat of the summer. The late-corn, however, is harvested later – from June to August – and at a higher moisture content, which complicates harvest and storage.

Feb 10 2014 | Argentina Soybeans: Recent Rains Replenish Immediate Moisture Requirements
Argentina soybean production for 2013/14 is forecast at 54.0 million metric tons, down 0.9 percent from last month, but up 9.5 percent from last season. The estimated harvested area is unchanged at 20.0 million hectares, up 3.1 percent from last year. Planting is complete throughout the country, and recent rain will benefit the emergence and development of the soybean crop. The forecast yield is reduced to 2.70 tons per hectare, down 0.9 percent from last month but up 6.3 percent from last year. Crop conditions have recovered somewhat from the hot and dry conditions that prevailed during January. About 86 percent of the soybeans are in good or very good condition according to the Ministry of Agriculture, but rain arrived late in western and southern areas of Buenos Aires, which could reduce the potential yield of second-crop soybeans in this region.

Feb 10 2014 | Argentina Corn: Unfavorable Heat During the Reproductive Stage
The 2013/14 Argentine corn crop is forecast at 24.0 million metric tons, down 4.0 percent from last month and down 9.4 percent from last year. Area is estimated at 3.3 million hectares, a drop of 2.9 percent from last month and 18 percent less than last year. Yield is forecast at 7.27 tons per hectare, down 1.1 percent from last month but up 9.8 percent from last year. Eleven days of very high temperatures with little or no rain in mid-December followed by hot and dry conditions throughout much of January have affected most of the Argentina’s early-planted corn. Much of this early corn was just going into flowering during the heat stress conditions, which will likely have a considerable effect on potential yield. Dryness caused additional stress for corn in southern Cordoba, La Pampa, and the western and central-south regions of Buenos Aires. Over 50 percent of the corn in Argentina this year was planted later than usual due to dry conditions early in the season. This later-planted corn reportedly helps to stabilize overall corn yield since the crop does not flower during the most intense heat of the summer. The late-corn, however, is harvested later – from June to August – and at a higher moisture content, which complicates harvest and storage.

Feb 10 2014 | Argentina Soybeans: Recent Rains Replenish Immediate Moisture Requirements
Argentina soybean production for 2013/14 is forecast at 54.0 million metric tons, down 0.9 percent from last month, but up 9.5 percent from last season. The estimated harvested area is unchanged at 20.0 million hectares, up 3.1 percent from last year. Planting is complete throughout the country, and recent rain will benefit the emergence and development of the soybean crop. The forecast yield is reduced to 2.70 tons per hectare, down 0.9 percent from last month but up 6.3 percent from last year. Crop conditions have recovered somewhat from the hot and dry conditions that prevailed during January. About 86 percent of the soybeans are in good or very good condition according to the Ministry of Agriculture, but rain arrived late in western and southern areas of Buenos Aires, which could reduce the potential yield of second-crop soybeans in this region.

Mar 10 2014 | Hot and Dry Mid-Summer Conditions Hurt Paraguay Soybean Yields
Paraguay’s 2013/14 soybean production is estimated at 8.1 million metric tons, 13 percent less than last month and 2.4 percent less than last year’s drought-affected crop. Harvested area is estimated at 3.1 million hectares, 6.1 percent less than last month but 3.3 percent more than last year. Yield is expected to be 2.61 tons per hectare, 7.3 percent less than last month’s estimate and 5.6 percent less than last year’s drought-hit crop. Above-average yields were reported at the beginning of harvest for early planted soybeans but as harvest progressed, yields dropped showing the damage from the extreme heat seen during the peak of growth and pod set. Some farmers planted in early September 2013 rather than late-September into October for the season. Hoping to avoid plant heat stress during flowering, this early planting was beneficial and allowed a portion of the crop to flower before three scorching weeks in December. Sporadic rains during December and January further hurt later-planted soybeans and affected the second-crop soybeans, or soja zafriña. The soja zafriña crop covers 0.5 million hectares this season, nearly 65 percent more than last year. By mid-February, nearly 75 percent of the soybean crop had been harvested and harvest will conclude in May. In the past two decades, area dedicated to this crop has tripled in size, growing at an average rate of three to six percent per year. More area expansion is expected in eastern and southeastern Paraguay and into San Pedro, Canindyú, Caaguazu, and Concepción over the next few years. In the past two years, crushing capacity has more than doubled in Paraguay with more than half of the soybeans produced now processed in-country, continuing to create demand for soybeans.

May 13 2013 | Argentina Soybean: 2013/14 Expected to Show Continued Strong Soy Planting
Argentina’s 2013/14 soybean production is forecast at 54.5 million metric tons, 7 percent more than expected for the 2012/13 season. Harvested area is estimated at 20 million hectares, up 3 percent more than this last season. About 66 percent of the soy harvested as of early-May. Yield is expected to be 2.73 tons per hectare, 3 percent higher than currently estimated for the 2012/13 season. Soybean planting of the 2013/14 crop will not begin until November, but is expected to still be prominent in planting plans this next season, as it has remained strongly favored by Argentine farmers. Rains during 2013 have helped to replenish soil moisture and the outlook for the 2013/14 season. Continued use of new, biotech soybeans has also favored strong soy production in Argentina, despite limited rotation on some fields. More wheat may also be planted this coming season, which may encourage more second-crop soybeans in the country. (For more information, please contact Denise McWilliams, PhD. 202-720-0107.)

Apr 10 2013 | Paraguay Soybeans: Record Area, Yield and Production Set
Paraguay soybean production for 2012/13 is estimated at a record 8.35 million tons, 8 percent more than last month and 92 percent more than last year’s drought-reduced crop. Area harvested is estimated at a record 3.0 million hectares, 0.1 million less than last month but up 0.2 million from last year. Yield is also estimated at a record, 2.78 tons per hectare. Improvements in farm practices, use of biotech soy, timely rains, warm temperatures and a relatively unhampered harvest are helping Paraguay to achieve a record high soybean yield. Adequate infrastructure allowed the transmission of strong world demand into the Paraguay market. One Paraguayan hub for agricultural products is the city of Puerto Presidente Stroessner, where Paraguay connects with Brazil by the Friendship Bridge. Asunción, the next busiest but a congested port, can handle crop exports with better berthing facilities and cargo handling equipment for soybeans and processed soybean products than smaller ports. (For more information, contact Denise McWilliams, PhD, at 202-720-0107.)

Apr 10 2013 | Uruguay Soybeans: Record Area and Production Forecast
Uruguay soybean production for 2012/13 is estimated at 3.0 million tons, up 58 percent from last month and 10 percent more than last year’s revised estimate. Harvested area is estimated at 1.13 million hectares, 18 percent higher than last month. Yield is estimated at a record 2.67 tons per hectare, a 34 percent increase from last month. The revisions are based on official Uruguay government estimates. Timely rains have helped achieve the record yield. Strong world demand and improvements to infrastructure are allowing for a strong upward trend in soybean harvested area over the last several years.

Mar 8 2013 | Argentina Corn: Timely Rain Benefits Stressed Corn Crop
USDA forecasts Argentina corn production for 2012/13 at 26.5 million metric tons, 2 percent below last month and 26 percent above the 21.0 million grown in 2011/12. The estimated harvested area of 3.5 million hectares is unchanged from last month and down 3 percent from last year’s drought-affected level. Yield is estimated at 7.57 tons per hectare, 2 percent lower than last month but 30 percent higher than last year. Last weekend’s rains helped replenish low soil moisture reserves for the late-planted corn, much of which is flowering and setting seed. Moisture along with moderate temperatures may moderate crop stress brought on by extended dry conditions in later-planted areas. Early-planted corn continues to finish grain-filling or is mature, with recent rains delaying harvest in Cordoba, Santa Fe, Entre Rios, and in northern Buenos Aires. Yields are reported as average to very good, but vary from field to field. Just over six percent of the crop had been harvested by the end of February in Argentina, accounting for about 225,000 hectares. (For more information, contact Denise McWilliams, PhD, at 202-720-0107.)

Mar 8 2013 | Argentina Soybeans: Rain Benefits Crop in Some Areas but Localized Dryness Persists
Argentine farmers are expected to bring in 51.5 million metric tons of soybeans, 3 percent less than last month but 28 percent more than last year, for the 2012/13 season. Production will be harvested from an estimated 19.35 million hectares, 1 percent less area than forecast last month but 10 percent more than last year. Yield is expected to be 2.66 tons per hectare, 2 percent lower than last month and 17 percent higher than last year. Recent rains brought relief to soy in some fields but may have been too late for stressed fields in the northwestern provinces. Soybeans in the core of the Argentine growing region may have fewer pods due to January to mid-February dry conditions. Yields are expected to vary dramatically, depending on when drying conditions hit the crop and soil-moisture reserves available in each field. Much of the crop is in the R1 to R5 stages (early flowering to pod fill), with earlier stressed areas having most of the crop in the R3 to R5 stage. (For more information, contact Denise McWilliams, PhD, at 202-720-0107.)

Feb 8 2013 | Argentina Corn: Conditions Vary From Region-to-Region
The USDA forecasts Argentine corn production for 2012/13 at 27.0 million metric tons, 4 percent below last month and 29 percent above the 21.0 million produced in 2011/12. Harvested area is estimated at 3.5 million hectares, unchanged from last month but down 3 percent from last year’s drought-affected national area. Yield is estimated at 7.71 tons per hectare, 4 percent lower than last month but 32 percent higher than last year. Crop condition as well as crop development vary across regions and from field to field, making it difficult to infer yield response to the changing weather. Some of the Argentine corn now at grain-fill stage has base leaves turning yellow due to both moisture-deficit and to corn mite infestation, resulting in potential yield loss. Farmers have been battling armyworms and stem borers as well as blight and smut in areas that earlier had excess moisture but now have low surface moisture. Additional rainfall is needed across much of the nation to remove current soil moisture deficits of 40 up to 80 millimeters. Harvest has begun in northern and central Argentina, just as late seeding is finishing in the south. (For more information, contact Dr. Denise McWilliams, 202-720-0107.)

Feb 8 2013 | Argentina Soybeans: Soy Progressing But Dry Weather Heightens Concerns
Argentine soybean production for the 2012/13 season is estimated at 53.0 million metric tons 2 percent less than last month and 32 percent more than last year. Area is estimated at 19.5 million hectares unchanged from last month and 11 percent more than last year. Yield is forecast to be 2.72 tons per hectare, 2 percent lower than last month and 19 percent higher than last year. The seeding of the crop is complete, even in the northern region that earlier was too dry to seed. Most of the early-planted crop is in pod-set, while the second crop and late-planted beans are largely in the moisture sensitive reproductive stage. Farmers are scouting fields for caterpillars to determine if threshold levels warrant insecticide spraying at this time. A lack of moisture in some areas and the limited and widely dispersed rains, seen within the last 15 days have caused concern for the crop. (For more information, contact Dr. Denise McWilliams, 202-720-0107.)

Jan 11 2013 | Argentina Soybeans: Planting Difficult with Excessive Rainfall
The USDA forecasts 2012/13 Argentine soybean production at 54.0 million, 2 percent less than last month but 35 percent more than last year. Area is estimated at 19.5 million hectares, 2 percent lower from last month and up 11 percent from last year. Yield is forecast at 2.77 tons per hectare, half a percent lower than last month and 21 percent higher than last year. Recent rains continue to hamper seeding in some areas. About 85 percent of the expected area has been seeded by the end of the first week of January. Problem areas, however, continue to be in northwest Buenos Aires (parts of the departments of General Villegas, Ameghino, and General Pinto) and southern Cordoba (department of Presidente Roque Sáenz Peña) where flooding may not allow 230,000 Ha to be seeded to a crop due to standing water. Ponding of excess rain on fields in the center of the province of Buenos Aires may also prevent or greatly delay planting on an additional 42,000 Ha. In early January, more rain in the northern regions of Argentina further complicated planting advances postponing seeding until fields dry enough to allow planters back in the fields. (For additional information, contact Dr. Denise McWilliams at 202-720-0107.)

Jan 11 2013 | Argentine Corn: Planting Continues Around Rain-Soaked Ground
USDA forecasts Argentine corn production for 2012/13 at 28.0 million tons, up 2 percent from last month and 33 percent above the 21 million tons grown in 2011/12. Area is estimated at 3.5 million hectares 5 percent less than last month and 3 percent less than last year’s drought-affected, harvested area. The yield for the crop is estimated at 8.0 tons per hectare 8 percent more than last month and 37 percent more than last year’s ravaged yields. Rains continue over the core-planting regions of Buenos Aires, Cordoba, Santa Fe and up into the northern regions where planting is nearing the end. Of the crop originally forecast to be planted, 4 percent in Buenos Aires remains unplanted; 4 percent in Cordoba; 11 percent in La Pampa; 11 percent in Santa Fe; and, 60 percent in the Northern regions, according to the Argentine Ministry of Agriculture in early January. Soil profiles throughout the country have ample moisture. Early-seeded corn is at the seed-fill stage and shows good yield potential because of the good moisture. There has been some crop spraying of corn due to reports of severe armyworm infestations in some locations along with sporadic disease such as smut and corn blight. (For additional information, contact Dr. Denise McWilliams at 202-720-0107.)

Jan 11 2013 | Argentina Wheat: Harvest Slow but Progressing in Buenos Aires and La Pampa
The USDA forecasts Argentine wheat production for 2012/13 at 11.0 million tons, down 4 percent from last month and down 29 percent from last year. Area is estimated at 3.7 million hectares, down 3 percent from last month and down 28 percent from last year. Yield is forecast at 2.97 tons per hectare, down 2 percent from last month and down 1 percent from last year. Favorable early season moisture conditions deteriorated when above-normal rains continued over stretches of La Pampa, particularly during the last half of the growing season. Rosario and surrounding areas have received excessive rainfall for the season on the open, flat topography. Ponding not only damaged crops but also slowed harvest and heightened concerns over disease and grain quality. The first week of January, harvest activity was concentrated around the provinces of Buenos Aires (55 percent of wheat remains to be harvested) and La Pampa (20 percent of the crop still to be harvested) where rain two weeks ago slowed the harvest. As of the week ending in Jan. 5, 30 percent of the Argentine crop remained to be harvested, mostly in the province of Buenos Aires. (For additional information, contact Dr. Denise McWilliams at 202-270-0107.)

Nov 9 2012 | Argentina Sunflowers: Planting Slows with Rains in the Pampas Plains
Argentina sunseed production for 2012/13 is forecast at 3.6 million tons, down 10 percent from last month but up 8 percent from last year. Heavy autumn rain, particularly in Buenos Aires province, hampered sunflower planting and contributed to an estimated 10-percent reduction from last month’s area forecast. Sown area is estimated at 1.8 million hectares, down 1 percent from last year. The cool, wet weather has also increased the likelihood of disease. With th e arrival of dry, sunny weather, some farmers may elect to plant warmer-season summer crops like corn or soybeans rather than sunflower. (For additional information, contact Dr. Denise McWilliams, at 202-720-0107.)

Aug 10 2012 | Argentina Corn: Improved Forecast over Last Year
USDA forecasts Argentine corn production for 2012/13 at 28.0 million tons, up 3.0 million or 12 percent from last month and up 33 percent from last year. Harvested area is forecast at 3.8 million hectares, up 0.4 million from last month. Excellent corn pricing has suggested potentially good returns. Yield is forecast at 7.37 tons per hectare, nearly unchanged from last month but up 26 percent from 2011/12 when a drought devastated the crop. The forecast yield, if achieved, will be above the 5-year average. Newly developed adapted hybrids, including recently registered quad-stacked biotech corn, will be favorable for corn yields. Seeding of the 2012/13 corn crop will begin next month.Harvesting of the last of the 2011/12 corn crop was still occurring during July and into August. Poor weather created problems in the province of Buenos Aires where recent rains slowed completion of the corn harvest and field preparation for seeding of small grains. (For more information, contact Dr. Denise McWilliams at 202-720-0107.)

Apr 10 2012 | Argentina Soybeans: Harvest of First-Crop Proceeding Around Rains
Argentine soybean production for 2011/12 is forecast at 45.0 million tons, down 1.5 million from last month and down 4.0 million or 8 percent from last year. Estimated harvested area remains unchanged at 18.6 million hectares, up 0.3 million or 2 percent from last year. Yield is expected to drop to 2.42 tons per hectare, down 3 percent from last month and down 10 percent from last year.Recent rains benefited the crop, but heat and drought during growth and development will likely limit yield, particularly in Cordoba, southern Santa Fe and northern Buenos Aires provinces. These areas account for nearly 50 percent of the first-crop soy. Late plantings of second-crop soybeans that extended through the end of January are at risk of damage from fall frost. With the first 15 percent of the soy crop harvested, yields have varied greatly across the provinces due to highly variable rains this season. (For more information, contact Dr. Denise McWilliams at 202-720-0107.)

Mar 15 2012 | Paraguay: Early Harvested Soy Yields are Low
The USDA estimates 2011/12 soybean production at 5.0 million tons, a drop of 22 percent from last month and 40 percent from last year. Harvested area is expected to be down to 2.6 million hectares, a 7 percent drop in area from last month and a 9 percent loss from last year. Yield is expected to drop to an average of 1.92 tons per hectare, a 16 percent loss from last month and a 34 percent loss from last year. Heavy rains that recently occurred have hampered harvest progress and will not benefit the crop.After good weather in October and into the first three weeks of November in 2011, Paraguay had below average rainfall. No rain was recorded in January 2012. The main soy producing area in southeastern Paraguay had severe crop losses with remaining stands now being harvested with reduced yields. Early assessments show a reduction in yield from 30 to 70 percent in areas stressed by earlier drought. The delegations showing the most damage to soybean include; Itapúa, Paraguarí, Alto Paraná, and Canindeyú.With such dire damage to crops in the heart of the growing region of Paraguay, the government recently declared a State of Food Emergency for 3 months, starting on January 17, 2012. The state will distribute additional bean and maize seeds to family farms with losses of 40 percent to their crops for the planting of the second season corn that is just starting. Unfortunately, the soybean crop—the main source of the country’s foreign exchange in agriculture—will be very limited this year and yields into mid-harvest continue to be low. (For additional information, contact Dr. Denise McWilliams at 202-720-0107.)

Mar 15 2012 | Argentine Soy Estimate Lowered
Argentine farmers are expected to bring in 46.5 million tons of soybeans for the 2011/12 season, 3 percent less than last month and 5 percent less than last year. The production will be harvested from an estimated 18.6 million hectares, 2 percent more area than last year and the same as last month. Yield is expected to fall to 2.50 tons per hectare, 3 percent lower than last month and 7 percent lower than last year.In the center of the main growing region northwestern Buenos Aires, southern Cordoba and far-southern Santa Fe, suffered earlier from drought have first crop soybeans showing stress with yield losses estimated at 20 to 25 percent. The areas hardest hit by the December and early January drought may have suffered loss in yield potential in some second crop soybeans. In western Buenos Aires delegations first crop soy is already in mid-to late-reproductive plant stages after receiving 500 mm of rain from January and early February and then recently receiving another 300 mm. (For additional information, contact Dr. Denise McWilliams at 202-720-0107.)

Feb 9 2012 | Argentina: Continued Timely Rains Supply Soybean Needs
Argentina is forecasted to produce 48 million tons of soybeans, 5 percent less than last month and 2 percent less than last year, for the 2011/12 season. The production expected will be harvested from an estimated 18.6 million hectares (ha), only 1.6 percent more area than last year and 0.5 percent less area than last month. Expected yield will fall to 2.58 tons per hectare, 4 percent lower than last month and last year. Some regions affected earlier by drought have imperiled soybean yield and production. The regions hit hard; northwestern Buenos Aires, southern Cordoba and far-south Santa Fe, have suffered. Around Junín, a delegation in the province of Buenos Aires, most early-planted soy only received about 5.6 millimeters (mm), 0.34 inches, of rain from the end of November through December 20. In such areas hit by drought and heat, leaves on the soybean plants are smaller and the plant internodes are short which may limit plant branching and flower/pod set. Recent rains, however, have helped across many fields. Many fields may pull out of some of the earlier plant stress if rains continue to be timely and replenishing as the bulk of the crop goes into and finishes pollination. Late-planted soybeans will be able to take full advantage of recent good soil moisture and warm temperatures as they emerge and proceed through the vegetative stage of development. (For more information, contact Dr. Denise McWilliams, at 202-720-0107.)

Feb 9 2012 | Argentina: Corn Suffered from Hot Weather and Limited, Late Rains
Too little, too late rain on Argentine corn will result in limited production during this season. USDA forecasts Argentine corn production for 2011/12 at 22.0 million tons. Harvested area is estimated at 3.6 million hectares (ha), down 2.0 million hectares. Additional moisture is necessary for the crop, which is in grain fill and approaching full maturity. The yield for the crop is now estimated at 6.11 tons per ha. In their Jan. 18 monthly report, the Argentine Ministry of Agriculture estimated that possibly 20 to 50 percent of the planted corn area may be lost due to earlier dry conditions. They further estimated that only about 1 percent of the fields were in very good condition, 32 percent good, 42 percent normal and 25 percent in bad condition. Cordoba, Argentina’s second-largest corn and soybean producing province declared a drought emergency January 17, 2012. A handful of other districts in surrounding provinces have also made the declaration. Some corn fields have been cut for silage or have cattle grazing due to poor grain fill. Some stalks in areas with sandier drought prone soils have not developed ears. The early-planted corn in Argentina appears to be the most affected as high temperatures and moisture deficits hit during pollination, resulting in lower yield potential. Late-planted corn across the core area generally appears in better form but is in danger of not reaching maturity before a killing frost. (For more information, contact Dr. Denise McWilliams, at 202-720-0107.)

Feb 9 2012 | Argentina: Barley Production gets Boost from Area Increase
Argentine barley farmers planted additional area this season that will boost supplies. The area estimated at 1.05 million hectares is more than originally suggested by Argentine officials. This increase of 11 percent over last month’s estimation of 0.95 million hectares will supply more grain for the country. Production is now forecast at 4.0 million tons as compared to last month’s estimation of 3.3 million tons, a 21 percent increase. Yield is expected to nationally average 3.81 tons per hectare as compared to the earlier estimate at 3.47 tons, a 10 percent increase. On again off again rains during the fall establishment of barley and some dry periods during the winter result in farmers deciding to plant more barley than originally estimated. Rains during grain fill provided more assimilate to grain from barley plants that increased yield and production. (For more information, contact Dr. Denise McWilliams, at 202-720-0107.)

Jan 12 2012 | Argentina Corn: December Dryness Threatens Production Prospects
The USDA forecasts Argentine corn production for 2011/2012 at 26.0 million tons, down 3.0 million from last month but up 3.5 million from last year. Area is estimated at 3.8 million hectares, unchanged from last month but up 0.2 million from last year. Yield is estimated at 6.84 tons per hectare (t/ha), up 9 percent from last year. During December, several locations in Argentina’s key corn-production region reported sporadic high temperatures above 38 degrees Celsius, (100 degrees Fahrenheit), resulting in moisture stress for some of the corn. About half of the early corn was entering the silking and tasseling stages – the stages most susceptible to drought. The corn in the northwest region of Buenos Aires, the southeast region of Cordoba, and the far southern region of Santa Fe has taken the brunt of the damage. Only scattered or very light rain (less than one-half inch) fell last week near the towns of Colonia, Almada, and Hernando in the province of Cordoba, while elsewhere in much of this southern region of the province no rain has been recorded. In Buenos Aires, the regions around the towns of Pergamino, Rojas and Salto have received less than 10 mm (less than one-half inch) with temperatures well above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. In the regions of Junín, Villegas (Pergamino) in Buenos Aires province and around María Teresa and Labordeboy in the province of Sante Fe, the crop has been under heat stress for several weeks. Some specialist suggest from 4 to 7 inches of rain will be necessary to replenish soil moisture and relieve plant stress for continued crop progress. In some sandy fields with severe damage, farmers are harvesting hay or directly grazing the corn crop. (For additional information, contact Dr. Denise McWilliams at 202-720-0107.)

Jan 12 2012 | Argentina: After Dry December, Soybeans Likely to Benefit from Recent Rainfall
Argentine soybean production for 2011/12 is estimated at 50.5 million tons, down 1.5 million from last month, but up 1.5 million from last year. Harvested area is estimated at 18.7 million hectares, up 2 percent from last year’s 18.3 million. Yield is estimated at 2.70 tons per hectare, down 1 percent from last month and up almost 1 percent from last year. Excessive December dryness resulted in poor emergence and establishment of first-crop soybeans in northwestern Buenos Aires, southern Cordoba and far-south Santa Fe provinces. Most soybeans in this region are not yet flowering and could pull out of severe stress if the crop receives rainfall in January and February. For instance, around Junín most soybeans only received about 6 mm (just over a third of an inch) of rain during December, which hampered crop establishment and growth. In the areas hardest hit from lack of rain, leaves of the soybean plants are smaller and crop plant internodes are short which may limit future plant branching and flower and pod set. The rain that fell in early January will encourage the planting of second-crop soybeans. As of last week, only 40 percent of the second-crop soybeans were in the ground. (For additional information, contact Dr. Denise McWilliams at 202-720-0107.)

Dec 9 2011 | Argentina: Wheat Harvest is One-Third Completed
The USDA forecasts Argentine wheat production for 2011/12 at 14.5 million tons, up 12 percent from last month but down 10 percent from last year. Area is estimated at 5 million hectares, up 9 percent from both last month and last year. Yield is forecast at 2.9 tons per hectare, up 3 percent from last month but down 17 percent from last year. Timely rainfall during the late grain-fill stage reversed earlier persistent dryness and boosted yields for the Argentine wheat crop. Within Buenos Aires Province, wheat condition is mixed. In Bahía Blanca, Chacabuco, Pehuajó, and Pergamino delegations, some spraying of fungicides was required in order to limit leaf disease on small grains. In Bragado, Lincoln, Tres Arroyos and in Veinticinco de Mayo, crop condition is good. In Cordoba Province, the wheat harvest has proceeded rapidly with crop condition generally good, although recent rain has slowed harvesting in some areas.In La Pampa, the wheat condition is mixed due to earlier dryness around Santa Rosa; however, the wheat in the delegation of General Pico appears excellent. In Santa Fe, most of the wheat is yielding well and harvest is proceeding around rain showers that came at the end of November. The wheat in San Luis is in very good condition and yields are coming in well above average for the area. Harvest has been disrupted some in the province of Chaco due to scattered showers in late November and early December, but crop condition is good. In the Northern regions of Argentina, there are some areas reporting low yields around Salta, Jujuy and Tucumán but in Catamarca yields look to be about average. While yields are a bit low this year in Santiago del Estero, the grain gluten content is high, indicative of the earlier dry conditions during crop flowering. (For more information, contact Denise McWilliams at 202-720-0107.)

Nov 9 2011 | Argentina Corn: Favorable Rainfall Boosts Corn Plantings and Production Prospects
The USDA forecasts Argentine corn production for 2011/12 at 29.0 million tons, up 1.5 million or 6 percent from last month and up 6.5 million or 29 percent from last year. Area is estimated at 3.8 million hectares, up 0.2 million from last month and up 0.2 million from last year. Yield is forecast at 7.63 tons per hectare, compared to the record 8.33 tons per hectare in 2009/10 and the five-year average of 7.08 tons per hectare. The current estimated yield is 22 percent above last year. Timely rains during the last three weeks in Buenos Aires, Cordoba, La Pampa, Santa Fe, Entre Rios and Corrientes have hastened corn planting and encouraged Argentine farmers to consider seeding more corn. Favorable prices, rotational benefits, and the expectation for better trade promotion of corn and wheat are encouraging many Argentine farmers to quickly finish corn seeding to take advantage of the current good soil moisture. Costs and margins for crops show corn as the top crop for income return. According to the Argentine Ministry of Agriculture corn planting was 56 percent complete as of October 27, slightly behind last year’s pacee when planting was 65 percent complete. Average abandonment for the past ten years is about 25 percent according to the Argentine Ministry of Agriculture, and has ranged from 8 percent in 1984/85 to 36 percent in 2008/09, a drought year. Good soil moisture reserves at both the surface and subsoil levels may ensure better corn establishment and less abandonment this season if timely rains continue. Despite persistent early warnings of La Niña and the potential that dryer conditions may return to the region, beneficial rain during October and early November along with promising weather forecasts for the remainder of November have instilled confidence for good corn germination and establishment. (For additional information, contact Dr. Denise McWilliams, at 202-720-0107).

Nov 9 2011 | Argentina Soybeans: 2011/12 Production Forecast Higher than Last Year
The USDA forecasts Argentine soybean production for 2011/12 at 52.0 million tons, down 2 percent from last month but up 6 percent from last year. Area is estimated at 19.0 million hectares, down 2 percent from last month but up 4 percent from last year. Yield is forecast at 2.74 tons per hectare, compared to a record 2.99 tons per hectare for 2006/07 and the five-year average of 2.68 tons per hectare. This yield is currently estimated at 2 percent above last year. Moisture conditions have been favorable for the early planting in much of the prime soybean growing region. Rain in the central growing area, including northern and eastern regions in the province of Buenos Aires, northeastern La Pampa, northeastern and east-central Cordoba, much of Santa Fe and into Entre Rios, has compensated for dryness during the first half of October. Some areas of Marco Juarez in the province of Cordoba alone received nearly five inches. Northeastern Santa Fe, Chaco, southeastern Formosa and northwestern Corrientes received from two to four inches of rain in the later part of October. Rain during the first week of November benefited the drier Northwest region (Santiago del Estero into Salta and Jujuy). The generally favorable soil moisture situation in Argentina will allow for good crop establishment this month and into December. High corn prices have potentially reduced some soy planting intentions as net profitability currently favors corn. A possible overhaul this year of the grain market in Argentina also has farmers optimistic about planting more freely traded corn and wheat in the country once 40 percent of the production of these two grains is set aside to insure plentiful supplies for domestic use. This anticipated change may limit further soybean area expansion over the current estimate this season. (For more information, contact Denise McWilliams at 202-720-0107.)

May 11 2011 | Strong Prices Lead to Rise in Total Foreign Corn Prospects
Total foreign corn production for the 2011/12 marketing year is forecast at a record 525 million tons, up 5 percent from 2010/11. Area is also forecast at a record 131.7 million hectares, up 3 percent from last year. Yield is forecast at a near-trend 3.98 tons per hectare at the beginning of the season in the Northern Hemisphere.Strong world prices have encouraged planting in many countries. US#3 corn FOB Gulf averaged US$255 per ton from November-to-January when many farmers were making their planting decisions. November-to-January prices are up from US$180 last year and US$137 for the 9-year average. A drop in total coarse grain and wheat production in 2010/11 caused by weather problems which led to lower-than-trend yields has resulted in a tightness in stock levels contributing to the high prices. The price rise is partly attributed to strong demand in Asia for corn to feed livestock, but also strong demand in the United States as a feed stock for producing ethanol to blend with gasoline. (For additional information, contact Paul Provance at 202-720-0873.)

May 11 2011 | Argentine Corn Planting Predictions for 2011/2012 Seen Exceeding this Past Year
Crop pricing and world demand are expected to push Argentine corn production in 2011/2012. Going into fall with good moisture supplies encourages farmers to consider corn in next season’s planting plans. USDA forecasts Argentine corn production will reach 26 million tons on 3.4 million hectares (ha) with a yield of 7.65 tons per ha. This production would be 18 percent above the corn crop in Argentina from 2010/2011 and 24 percent higher than the 5-year average for corn production. Predicted harvest area is 6 percent above this last season’s area and 16 percent more than the 5-year-average area planted in the country. Yield would be 11 percent higher than the current crop and 6 percent over the 5-year-average yield obtained in past seasons. Good soil moisture and better soil fertility management in the core corn planting provinces of Buenos Aires and Cordoba should allow excellent corn planting prospects next season for corn. (For additional information, contact Dr. Denise McWilliams at 202-720-0107.)

May 11 2011 | Argentine Farmers Expected to Bring in More Soy in 2011/2012
Success at producing quality soybeans, meal and oil, will encourage Argentine farmers to produce more soybeans in 2011/2012. Market opportunities may promote production to 53 million tons this next season, marking the crop as 7 percent higher than the current campaign and possibly 15 percent higher than the recent 5-year production trend. Expected soybean area to be harvested is 19.3 million hectares. This increase in soy area would be 4 percent more than last season and 12 percent more than the recent 5-year average. Yield this next season is predicted to be 2.75 tons per hectare, 3 percent more than the present season’s crop and 2 percent more than the 5-year average. Use of conservation tillage practices and timely planting has helped boost soy yields in the country. Better soy seed varieties and continued testing through experiment station trials have helped Argentine farmers to better manage soy field investments. Better pest monitoring on fields has helped farmers bring in better quality soybeans and recoup field crop input costs. (For additional information, contact Dr. Denise McWilliams at 202-720-0107.)

Apr 8 2011 | Argentina: Late Planted Sunflowers Plantings Benefit from End of Season Rains
The USDA forecasts Argentine sunseed production at 3.30 million tons, up 18 percent from last month and up 43 percent from last year. Yield this year is estimated at 2.00 tons per hectare, up 18 percent from last month and up 29 percent from last year. Harvested area remains unchanged from last month at 1.65 million hectares but is up 11 percent from last year. Early dry conditions this season encouraged more sunflower fields to be seeded. Later showers were timely and allowed good seed fill on plants. Mitigation of some of the pigeon and parrot problems contributing to sunflower seed losses in Argentina have been accomplished this year through additional plantings and hunting. Staggered planting of the crop due to sparse, scattered showers early in the season may have also allowed fields to weather bird, insect and disease problems better this season once plants were established. Late-season rains helped to fill seed heads and contributed to better yields. (For additional information, contact Dr. Denise McWilliams at 202-720-0107.)

Apr 8 2011 | Paraguay: Rains on the Plains Push Soy Supply
The USDA forecasts Paraguay soy production at 8.1 million tons, up 8 percent from last month and above last year by 12.5 percent. Harvested area is estimated at 2.8 million hectares, up less than 1 percent from last month but above last year by 5 percent. Yield is forecast at 2.87 tons per hectare, compared to the 2002/2003 record of 2.90 tons and the 5-year average of 2.16 tons. Outstanding rainfall combined with increased investment in fungicides and insecticides have boosted estimated 2010/2011 soybean production above the level of recent years. Rains in January and February boosted plant growth and pod load even on lighter soils. Harvest is about 90 percent complete with yields ranging from 2.20 to 4.60 tons per hectare. In some fields, harvest was delayed due to wet weather that resulted in uneven maturity and limited farmers ability to enter fields. Soybean production has benefited from improved crop genetics and management during the past five years. It is estimated by the private seed industry that close to 90 percent of the soy in Paraguay is genetically altered and has lead to improved yields. (For additional information, contact Dr. Denise McWilliams at 202-720-0107.)

Mar 10 2011 | Argentina: Estimated Record Yield for Wheat
The USDA forecasts Argentine wheat production for 2010/11 at 15.0 million tons, up 36 percent from last year. Area is estimated at 4.3 million hectares, up nearly 18 percent from last year. Yield is estimated at a record 3.49 tons per hectare, up 16 percent from last year and substantially higher than the five-year average of 2.58 tons per hectare. Low soil moisture caused some concern at the onset of planting, but timely rains in early November allowed high prices to push more area into wheat than last year. Frequent rains throughout the season were beneficial and increased yields more than expected. Harvest is in progress. (For more information, contact Arnella Trent at 202-720-0881.)

Feb 9 2011 | Argentine Corn Yields Forecast to Drop Due to Adverse Weather
The USDA forecasts Argentine corn production for 2010/11 at 22.0 million tons, down 1.5 million or 6 percent from last month and down 4 percent from last year. Area is estimated at 3.2 million hectares, unchanged from last month but up 19 percent from last year. Yield is forecast at 6.88 tons per hectare, which is below the 5-year average of 7.12.Rains returned to the main farming belt of Cordoba, Santa Fe, Entre Rios, and Buenos Aries in mid-January. Precipitation was sufficient to replenish surface and subsurface moisture but may have come too late to benefit pollinating corn. Local reports indicate that 30 to 35 percent of the corn crop was affected by severe dryness and high temperatures from December to mid-January, including irreversible damage in some areas. Following crop-assessment travel in northern Buenos Aires province, Southeastern Cordoba, and southern Santa Fe, the U.S. agricultural attaché in Buenos Aires reported that crop conditions in mid-January varied from under-developed to excellent. (For more information, contact Arnella Trent at 202-720-0881.)

Feb 9 2011 | Argentina Soybeans: Production Forecast Down
The USDA forecasts 2010/11 Argentine soybean production at 49.5 million metric tons, down 1.0 million or nearly 2 percent from last month and down 9 percent from last year. Area is estimated at 18.6 million hectares, unchanged from both last month and last year. Yield is forecast at 2.66 tons per hectare, down 2 percent from last month and down 9 percent from last year. Rainfall in the main farming belt of Cordoba, Santa Fe, Entre Rios, and Buenos Aries in mid-January enabled farmers to continue planting in southern Cordoba, central and southern Santa Fe, and eastern Buenos Aires (where second-crop soy is planted after wheat). The Buenos Aires Grain Exchange estimated that planting was virtually complete as of January 27. Current conditions for soybeans depends largely on when the field was planted. Approximately 40 percent of the early-planted soy was flowering during the drought conditions in December and early January, which will likely reduce potential yield. The U.S. agricultural attaché in Buenos Aires reported that first-crop soybeans were shorter than normal. (For more information, contact Arnella Trent at 202-720-0881.)

Jan 12 2011 | Argentina: Estimated Corn Yield Slightly Reduced Due to Low Soil Moisture Reserves
The USDA forecasts Argentine corn production for 2010/11 at 23.5 million tons, down 6 percent from last month but 3 percent more than last year. Area is estimated at 3.20 million hectares, unchanged from last month but above last year by about nearly 19 percent. Yield is forecast at 7.34 tons per hectare, compared to a record high in 2009/10 of 8.44 tons per hectare and a five-year average of 7.12 tons. This new estimated yield is 13 percent lower than last year when rains toward the end of the season provided good return from the limited crop area in corn.Although rains have been timely and consistent when needed in some corn areas, the soil moisture profile reserves in Argentina's core growing regions are very low. Warm temperatures have continued to dry out surface moisture and limit recharge to subsoil reserves. Rainfall has been scattered and quite variable. Some of the expected corn area may not be planted this season, despite the recent rain in Northern Argentina. The bulk of the corn crop is in pollination now and any additional stress will further limit yield potential and production. Estimates suggest that between 30 and 35 percent of the corn crop is seriously affected by the dryness. All corn areas could use more rain in order to provide some buffer to dryness with replenishment of soil moisture reserves. (For more information, contact Denise McWilliams at 202-720-0107.)

Jan 12 2011 | Argentina: Soy Output Reduced Due to Low Soil Moisture
The USDA forecasts Argentine soybean production for 2010/11 at 50.5 million tons, down 3 percent from last month and down 7 percent from last year. Area is estimated at 18.6 million hectares, unchanged from both last month and last year. Yield is forecast at 2.72 tons per hectare, compared to a record high in 2006/07 of 2.99 tons per hectare and a five-year average of 2.68 tons per hectare. This estimated yield is 7 percent below last year.Good planting conditions early in the season deteriorated with the arrival of dry and warm weather that has parched soil and slowed planting progress. Early-planted soybeans have begun to flower, and although recent rain has provided some relief, about 40 percent of the early-planted crop is in danger of potential yield dipping even further. The early-January rain will allow soy planting to continue in southern Cordoba, central and southern Santa Fe, eastern Buenos Aires (where second-crop soy is planted after wheat), and in portions of northern Argentina. Final sown area will depend in part on the amount of rainfall received before the planting window closes for the season. (For more information, contact Denise McWilliams at 202-720-0107.)

Nov 10 2010 | Argentina: Wheat Area is Now Estimated Larger with Good Early Rains
The USDA forecasts Argentine wheat production for 2010/11 at 13.5 million tons, up nearly 13 percent from last month and up 29 percent from last year. Area is estimated at 4.5 million hectares, up 5 percent from last month and nearly 29 percent from last year. Yield is forecast at 3 tons per hectare, the same as the record high obtained last year and higher than the five-year average of 2.58 tons per hectare.Timely rains have increased yield expectations in the wheat-growing regions in Argentina. Early low soil moisture reserves caused worries and reduced planting expectations, but the onset of rains and continued high wheat prices pushed more area into wheat than previously estimated. Frequent rains have promoted wheat plant growth and development and now are aiding in grain fill. Wheat is heading in the province of Buenos Aires with some early planted fields in the northern region being harvested. Excellent temperatures and soil moisture in the Buenos Aires delegation of Bragado have increased yield expectation. Fungicide applications have limited problems with disease and currently no insect problems are seen. In the delegation of Junín, conditions are good. Good soil moisture from recent rain has allowed filling to progress in Pergamino. Fungicides are being sprayed to prevent Fusarium outbreaks from the moisture. Only a few wheat plants in the area are showing some white spots on the flag leaf, signaling possible light traces of powdery mildew. Temperatures are now warming from recent cool weather, preventing the spread of fungal problems. Soil is drying around the delegations of Salliqueló and Pigüé, but no insects or diseases are appearing in fields. Recent rain has helped in the Tandil region with warming temperatures. Very slight powdery mildew and Septoria blotch have appeared and these areas have been sprayed. In Tres Arroyos, the wheat is reported to be in very good conditions. In the drier regions of Coronel Dorrego and Coronel Pringles, harvest has begun but yields will be limited. In Córdoba, beginning harvest looks promising, particularly in the southeast. Despite foliar disease problems in the province, good soil moisture will carry the crop through grain fill and boost yields. Entre Ríos wheat fields are mixed in development from flag leaf to flowering to grain fill. Harvest is expected to start during the last half of November. La Pampa had recent, beneficial, late rains. Only the far western region will show yield drag from early dry conditions. Overall Santa Fe conditions are favorable with some fungicide applications being made on fields; but in the delegation of Casilda, extremely dry conditions are reducing plant vigor. Wheat conditions in San Luis and Chaco are being reported as good. Very early planted wheat in Chaco has lower yields but as combines move into later planted fields, yields are improving. In the North, higher temperatures have been accompanied by rain. Yields in Jujuy are about double those in Salta with early combine readings, but later planted fields in Salta have good yields equal to those in Jujuy. Tucumán is reaping excellent wheat yields. Vigilant crop scouting and promotion of fungicide use along with frequent, timely rain have benefited wheat fields in Argentina. (For more information, contact Denise McWilliams at 202-720-0107.)

Nov 10 2010 | Argentina: Soy Area Expanding into More Pastureland
The USDA forecasts Argentine soybean production for 2010/11 at 52 million tons, up 4 percent from last month but 4.6 percent less than last year. Area is estimated at 18.6 million hectares, up 3.3 percent from last month but the same as last year. Yield is forecast at 2.80 tons per hectare, compared to a record high in 2006/07 of 2.99 tons per hectare and a five-year average of 2.69 tons per hectare. This yield is 4.6 percent below last year.Good planting conditions from recent rains in much of the prime farm land area have allowed soy planting to reach 15 percent complete at the end of October. High crop prices along with better soil moisture and some conversion of pastureland into cropped soy have increased the forecast for Argentine soybeans. Within the province of Buenos Aires, the delegation of Bragado has hastened planting as soil temperatures reached excellent levels for seeding first crop soy. With recent high prices for young cattle, some ranchers are choosing to rent the land for soy. Good moisture and soil temperature encouraged planting in the province of Córdoba where some soybeans are already emerging. Recent rain in the delegation of Marcos Juárez has pushed planting so quickly that custom planters are in high demand. In central Córdoba, group III and IV medium season varieties soybeans are going into the ground while further north, farmers are planting group IV and V longer season varieties with hopes that consistent rain can push yields on these soybeans through the season. Fertilizer is being applied to some fields in central Córdoba regions to boost yields. In the delegation of Villa María, soy planting has advanced two percent as of October 28. (For more information, contact Denise McWilliams at 202-720-0107.)

Oct 8 2010 | Argentina: Corn Area Expansion Expected with Planting Moisture
The USDA forecasts Argentine corn production for 2010/11 at 25.0 million tons, up 4 million or 19 percent from last month and up 2.5 million or 11 percent from last year. Area is estimated at 3.2 million hectares, up 0.5 million hectares from last month and from last year. Yield is forecast at 7.81 tons per hectare, compared to the record high 8.33 tons per hectare in 2009/10 and the five-year average of 7.06 tons per hectare. Timely rains as well as warm temperatures have hastened corn planting in core regions. Timely rain the last two weeks in Cordoba and La Pampa encouraged Argentine farmers to consider seeding more corn. Entre Rios (78 percent planted) and Santa Fe (56 percent planted) have excellent soil moisture conditions and early corn has been planted in these provinces. Favorable prices along with rotational benefits for farmland are promoting corn planting. The recent September issue of Margenes Agropecuarios, a monthly magazine with an overview of conditions, costs and margins for crops in Argentina, list soybeans and corn as the crops providing the highest returns. Fullseason corn in Argentina requires four very good months of growing conditions and continued, consistent rain to meet the current estimated production. Early planting may help this year. Farmers will have a full season with these early-planted corn fields for better crop dry-down in the fall for harvest. Harvest of the 2009/10 crop was hampered by late rain. Corn planting this season is 21 percent complete as of September 30, 2010, ahead of the pace of the last several years. Average abandonment for corn in Argentina is 25 percent for the last 5 years. (For more information, contact Denise McWilliams at 202-720-0107.)

Jul 12 2010 | Argentina: Improved Soybean Yields Boost 2009/10 Production
The USDA forecasts Argentine soybean production for 2009/10 at 54.5 million tons, up 1 percent from last month and up 22.5 million or 70 percent from 2008/09. This would be a 31 percent increase in production from the 5-year average of 41.3 million tons. Area is estimated to reach 18.6 million hectares, 1 percent below last month but up 16 percent from 2008/09 when drought cut harvested soybean area to 16 million hectares. Favorable growing conditions will boost yield for 2009/10 to 2.93 tons per hectare. Good growing conditions and timely rains in much of the core soy areas in Argentina helped yields during final maturation. The current 2009/10 yield estimate is 2 percent lower than the record yield of 2.99 tons per hectare recorded in 2006/07. (For additional information, contact Dr. Denise McWilliams, South American Crop Assessment Analyst at 202-720-0107.)

May 11 2010 | Argentine Soybean: 2010/2011 Planting Moderated by Diverse Cropping Choices
The USDA forecasts Argentine soybean production for 2010/11 at 50.0 million tons, down 7 percent from the record 2009/10 crop of 54.0 million tons but up 18.0 million or 56 percent from 2008/09. This would be a 13-percent increase in production from the 5-year average of 44.1 million tons. Area is estimated to reach 18.0 million hectares, 4 percent below 2009/10 but up 13 percent from 2008/09 when drought cut harvested soybean area. A year-to-year drop in the planted soybean area in 2010/11 is expected due to higher corn and sunflower plantings as well as a slowdown in the conversion of cattle pasture to cropland. An expected increase in cotton area also will likely cut into soybean area. Clearing activities for soybean expansion in northern provinces of the country have been slowed by provincial restrictions and requirements that new cropland retain forested borders. Higher freight costs and use of lower-yielding marginal lands in northern and western provinces also will limit soy production, as will the increased rotation of fields from soy to alternative crops in order to minimize potential disease and insect problems. Currently, the export tax on soybeans remains at 35 percent, while taxes on other crops remain lower. (For additional information, contact Dr.Denise McWilliams, at 202-720-0107.)

Apr 13 2010 | Argentina Soybeans: Production Expected to Push Record Level
The USDA forecasts Argentine soybean production for 2009/10 at 54.0 million tons, up 1.0 million tons or 2 percent from last month and up 69 percent from last year's estimated 32.0 million tons. This year's estimated production is up 31 percent from the 5-year average of 41.3 million tons. Area is estimated to reach 18.8 million hectares, the same as last month and up 18 percent from last year when drought cut harvested soybean area. Both production and area are forecast at record high levels. The previous record for soy production in Argentina was during 2006/07 when 48.8 million tons were grown. Dry weather and only scattered showers have been occurring across much of Argentina where harvest has begun but is less than 10 percent complete as of April 9. Earlier wet conditions had spurred fears of disease problems in soy fields, but farmers quickly sprayed as needed. Northern Argentina may have record yields throughout much of Tucuman, Jujuy, Santiago del Estero and even into Salta as early moisture promoted crop growth and branching and brought about heavy pod loads even on late-planted early maturing varieties. Soybeans, in areas of northern Buenos Aires that early in the season had heavy rains and some replanting within edges of fields, have fared well with yields expected to be limited but better than first projected. Producers in many areas of Cordoba and Entre Rios should reap high yields. (For more information, contact Dr.Denise McWilliams, at 202-720-0107).

Mar 11 2010 | Argentine Corn: Conditions Improve, Output Will Depend on Harvest Weather
The USDA forecasts Argentine corn production for 2009/10 at 21.0 million tons, up 3.8 million or 22 percent from last month and up 6.0 million or 40 percent from last year. Area is estimated at 2.5 million hectares, up 0.35 million from last month and the same as last year. Yield is forecast at 8.40 tons per hectare, compared to the record 8.04 tons per hectare in 2006/07 and the five-year average of 6.87 tons per hectare. This yield is 40 percent above the yield estimated for last year when drought severely damaged the corn crop. Timely rain and moderate temperatures have benefited the corn crop this season. Crop stage throughout the country varies from pollination to maturity. For fields that are currently in the pollination stage, yield potential will remain high if favorable weather continues. In southern Buenos Aires province, where planting occurred in late December and January, corn is at the milk to dough stage. Because of cool weather, some fields in this region have had problems with incomplete pollination caused by silk twisting within the corn husk, early crop stress or possibly some beetle damage to silks. The observed damage was highly variable affecting up to 10 percent of the crop in fields, with ears with only a few missing kernels to some ears having one third of the kernels not pollinated. In Cordoba province, overall corn yields will likely be higher than in other provinces in Argentina. Much of the late-planted, full-season corn in Argentina will require ideal conditions in order to complete grain-fill and dry-down. Some of the very latest-planted fields will only be used for forage production due to late development now at the 6- to 12-leaf stage. Uneven maturity, due chiefly to varied planting dates, could hamper harvest timeliness. Corn harvest will be a patchy process requiring harvest operators to accommodate the highly variable stages of maturity. Limited drying facilities could be a problem if continued cool, wet conditions delay dry-down or cause late-season tip-end sprouting. (For additional information, contact Denise McWilliams at 202-720-0107).

Feb 12 2010 | Argentina: Cotton Area Expansion Forecast
The USDA forecasts Argentine cotton area for 2009/10 at 435,000 hectares, up 35,000 or 9 percent or from last month, and up 135,000 or 45 percent from last year. Yield is forecast at 425 kilograms per hectare (kg/ha), down 2 percent from last month and last year. The record yield is 547 kg/ha, achieved in 1987/88. Production is estimated at 0.85 million bales, up 0.05 million or 6 percent from last month but down from the record output of 2.09 million in 1995/96. Frequent rain interrupted planting progress, but farmers extended the sowing campaign and planted area increased despite the delays. The wide range of planting dates, however, will likely complicate harvest due to the widely differing stages of crop maturity. Crop conditions are best in Chaco. In Santiago del Estero, crop damage has occurred due to recent hot, dry weather accompanied by wind following excessive rain from November through early January. (For more information, contact Denise McWilliams at 202-720-0107.)

Feb 12 2010 | Argentina: Timely Rain Improves Conditions for Corn Crop
The USDA forecasts Argentine corn production for 2009/10 at 17.2 million tons, up 2.2 million or 15 percent from last month and up 4.6 million or 37 percent from last year. Area is estimated at 2.15 million hectares, up 0.15 million from last month and down 0.10 million from last year. Yield is forecast at 8.00 tons per hectare, compared to the record high 8.04 tons per hectare in 2006/07 and the five-year average of 6.83 tons per hectare. This yield is up 43 percent from last year, when drought severely damaged the corn crop. This year, timely rains and moderated temperatures have served to improve corn growth and development. Corn that is currently at the pollination stage shows good yield potential. Some corn was planted later due to unfavorable planting conditions at the time, as well as farmers' concerns over controversial corn export taxes. This later-planted corn, as well as Argentina's full-season corn, is at risk of sharper than normal yield declines should unfavorable weather occur during the remainder of the growing season. The diverse planting dates could hamper harvest timeliness due to widely differing stages of crop maturity. (For more information, contact Denise McWilliams at 202-720-0107.)

Jan 12 2010 | Corn Production Looks Promising in Argentina
The USDA forecasts Argentine corn production for 2009/10 at 15.0 million tons, up 1.0 million from last month. Area is estimated at 2.0 million hectares, down 11 percent from last year's harvested area of 2.25 million hectares and down 27 percent from the 5-year average. The forecast yield of 7.5 tons per hectare is up 34 percent from last year's drought-impacted crop. The crop stage now varies from the eight-leaf stage to near maturity for the bulk of the crop, with the exception of newly-planted fields. Corn condition is better than expected due to recent favorable weather.Most of the crop in the core production area is in good condition. Some corn areas have had more than ample rain recently, but flooding has been limited. An area within the district of Roque Saenz Pena in southern Cordoba has been inundated with rain. One report suggested that 500,000 hectares had been affected by heavy rain, but it is unknown how much of that area was planted to corn. Parts of northern Buenos Aires and southern Santa Fe province also had heavy showers. Most of the last of the corn was planted the past few weeks. Moderate weather, along with a forecast of drying conditions this week will benefit crop development in most areas. Production estimates vary due to the wide range of planting dates across the country. Over three-fourths of the crop is approaching the pollination stage, so weather during the next few weeks will be key to determining the final crop output. (For more information, contact Dr.Denise McWilliams at 202-720-0107, Denise.McWilliams@fas.usda.gov).

Dec 10 2009 | Argentine Corn Benefits from Localized Rains While Planting Progresses
Rain during the first week of December benefited corn growth and hastened planting of the crop between showers. The USDA forecasts Argentine corn production for 2009/10 at 14.0 million tons, unchanged from last month but up 1.4 million from last year when drought limited corn harvest and production. Area is estimated at 1.9 million hectares, below last year's harvested area of 2.25 million and about 30 percent lower than both the 5-year and 10-year averages.Corn planting has proceeded through localized rain events and is now about 75 percent completed. With diverse planting dates throughout the country, the current crop stage varies from recently-planted to tasseling. The bulk of the crop is about knee-high and in good condition in most of the core planted areas.Heavy rains in southern Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay have filled the Parana River and caused flooding in northern Argentina (as indicated on MODIS imagery), threatening agricultural land and forcing some places to evacuate cattle to drier pastures. (For more information, contact Dr. Denise McWilliams at 202-720-0107, Denise.McWilliams@fas.usda.gov.)

Nov 10 2009 | Argentine Soybean: Area Expected to Expand with Return of Rains
The USDA forecasts Argentine soybean production for 2009/10 at 53.0 million tons, up 1 percent from last month and up 66 percent from last year's estimated 32.0 million tons. This brings this year's estimated production up 28 percent from the 5-year average of 41.3 million tons. Area is estimated to reach 18.8 million hectares, up 1 percent from last month and up 18 percent from last year when drought cut harvested soybean area. Both area and production and area are forecast at record high levels.With dry weather continuing in much of Argentina, more soy will be planted as first-crop beans. Planting is expected to expand into areas where other crops were planned but not planted, but the expansion is dependant on favorable temperatures and adequate soil moisture during planting. Sunflower area estimates have been reduced; the optimum timing for sunflower planting is rapidly ending and soy may be the replacement. Continued dryness in western and central Argentina along with recent temperature extremes have not helped early planted crops and have prompted farmers to wait longer to plant the bulk of soy. It is estimated that 70 percent of cropland in Cordoba and Santa Fe has yet to be prepared for planting as farmers wait for better sowing conditions. (For additional information, contact Dr. Denise McWilliams, at (202) 720-0107 or Denise.McWilliams@fas.usda.gov).

Nov 10 2009 | Argentine Sunflower: Planting Window is Closing
The USDA forecasts Argentine sunflower output for 2009/10 at its fourth lowest level in the last 21 years. Production is forecast at 3.23 million tons, down 14 percent from last month, but up 11 percent from last year's estimated 2.90 million tons. Area is estimated to reach only 1.90 million hectares, only 5 percent more than last year when drought cut harvested sunflower area. Unfavorable early-season weather in much of the sunflower region caused soils to dry out and has limited planted area. October rainfall was only 16 percent of normal in La Pampa, 50 percent of normal in Santa Fe, 31 percent of normal in Cordoba, 53 percent of normal in Buenos Aires, and 65 percent of normal in Entre Rios. The planting window for sunflowers is closing in northern Chaco and the optimal planting time for the crop throughout the country will end in late November. (For additional information, contact Dr. Denise McWilliams, (202) 720-0107 or Denise.McWilliams@fas.usda.gov).

Oct 13 2009 | Argentina: Soybean Area and Production Forecast to Increase
The USDA forecasts Argentine soybean production for 2009/10 at a record 52.5 million tons, up 3 percent from last month and up 64 percent from last year's estimated 32.0 million tons. This year's forecast production is up 27 percent from the 5-year average of 41.3 million tons. Area is forecast to reach a record 18.55 million hectares, 3 percent more than last month and 16 percent more than last year when drought cut harvested soybean area. Due to reduced plantings of wheat-- and lower expectations for corn and sunflowers -- as a result of the previous season's drought conditions, area is shifting from those crops into first-crop soybean plantings. First-crop soybeans yield better than soybeans that follow winter wheat. Recent rain has benefited much of Argentina's soybean regions, although some western soy regions are in need of additional soil moisture. Many expect limited crop inputs to be used this season, again indicting the possibility of more soy seeding in Argentina. Argentine soybeans typically are planted from November to January and harvested from March to June. (For additional information, contact Denise McWilliams at 202-720-0107.)

Oct 13 2009 | Paraguay Soybeans: Planted Area Forecast to Increase
As the season begins, reports from Paraguay indicate higher area planted to soybeans. Planting runs from October through December. Area is estimated at 2.8 million hectares, a 9-percent increase from both last month and last year. Production is forecast at 6.7 million tons, up 17 percent from last month and up 72 percent from last year. This compares with the 5-year average output of 4.87 million tons. Beneficial moisture was received at the beginning of the season, and yields are forecast to rebound from last year's level with a return to normal weather following last season's drought. (For additional information, contact Denise McWilliams at 202-720-0107.)

Sep 11 2009 | Argentina: Corn Production Estimated Lower Due to Weather, Price and Export
The USDA forecasts Argentina's corn production for 2009/10 at 14.0 million tons, down 1.0million or 7 percent from last month but up 1.4 million or 11 percent from last year. Area isestimated at 1.9 million hectares, down 0.1 million or 5 percent from last month and down 0.35million or 16 percent compared to last year. Yield is forecast at 7.37 tons per hectare, comparedto the record high of 8.04 tons per hectare in 2006/07 and the five-year average of 6.79 tons perhectare. The current outlook for the 2009/10 crop is only marginally better than last year, whencorn suffered through an extended drought which severely lowered crop yields. Last year'sharvest was the lowest in the last 13 years, since the 11.1-million-ton crop of 1995/96. Recenthigh temperatures have depleted soil moisture across Argentina. Some eastern regions havereceived enough rainfall to bolster soil moisture supplies in the short term but western andcentral growing areas need more moisture in order to ensure proper germination and emergenceof corn over the next few months. With corn prices declining in Argentina and on the worldmarket, there is less incentive for farmers to plant corn in Argentina this year. High prices forfertilizer, seed, and other inputs, in addition to continued high export taxes, also limit theincentives to grow corn this year. (For additional information contact Dr. Denise McWilliams,202-720-0107)

Aug 19 2009 | Argentina: Wheat Optimum Planting Window Is Closed
The USDA forecasts Argentine wheat production for 2009/10 at 8.5 million tons, down 11 percent from last month's 9.5 million. Area is estimated at 3.0 million hectares, down 0.5 million from last month. Yield is forecast at 2.83 tons per hectare, up from 2.71 tons per hectare last month, and compared to the record high 3.03 tons per hectare in 2006/07 and the 5-year average of 2.71 tons per hectare. Continued dry conditions have hampered sowing in western wheat-planting regions of Argentina, including Cordoba, La Pampa and northwest and western Buenos Aires. Reportedly, crops emerging in these regions are very sparse. Soil moisture is not sufficient to produce uniform germination and emergence in these parched areas. Farmers are now hesitant to plant due to insufficient moisture even in the far southwest and southern Buenos Aires province. In southern La Pampa, no more than 40 percent of the wheat area normally emerged by this time has been sown. In addition, recent cold weather through much of Argentina may also have affected newly emerged crops. Meanwhile, conditions are better in the eastern wheat region, including south-central Santa Fe, Entre Rios and in northeastern Buenos Aires. Yields are typically higher in these areas, and although occasional rain has interrupted planting, this region will again be the key area for wheat production this year. Although wheat export quotas are to be eliminated this week, export taxes remain at 23 percent. This financial disincentive, combined with the lack of rain in western and southern regions, likely discouraged many farmers from planting. (For additional information, contact Dr. Denise McWilliams, at 202-720-0107.)

Jul 10 2009 | Argentina Wheat: Dry Weather Reduces Sown Area for 2009/10
The USDA forecasts Argentine wheat production for 2009/10 at 9.5 million tons, down 1.5 million tons or 14 percent from last month's 11.0 million. Area is estimated at 3.5 million hectares, down 0.5 million or 13 percent from last month. Yield is forecast at 2.71 tons per hectare, down from 2.75 tons per hectare last month, compared to the record high 3.03 tons per hectare in 2006/07 and the 5-year average of 2.71 tons per hectare. Continued dry conditions have hampered wheat sowing due to very low topsoil moisture. Subsoil moisture is even more critical. Recent rain showers have replenished surface soil moisture in southeastern and southern Buenos Aries and eastern Entre Rios, and farmers in these regions have begun planting. In Cordoba, La Pampa, Santa Fe, and other provinces, however, the weather remains drier than normal with little planting. Although some commercial analysts expect much less area to be planted this season, recent rains in Buenos Aires, where 60 percent of all Argentina wheat is grown, has resulted in additional planting. Some farmers who originally did not plan to plant wheat due to the dryness are now sowing wheat, and additional rain could stimulate more planting. Limited rainis expected in the near future, and a forecast resurgence of the El Niño weather pattern could bring more rain to wheat-growing regions of Argentina. In addition to the weather-related area reduction, high taxes on wheat exports and low wheat prices have also discouraged farmers from planting as much wheat this season as in previous years. The window of optimum sowing in many regions does not close until after the first week of August. (For additional information, contact Dr. Denise McWilliams, at 202-720-0107.)

Jun 10 2009 | Argentine Barley Planting to Lessen
Barley harvested area in Argentina during 2009/10 is expected to drop down to 0.45 million hectares as compared to the 0.48 million hectares in 2008/09 due to less demand for contracts from key buyers. Production may drop to 1.6 million tons with less ground planted, down to the same production as the drought-ridden 2008/09 year. Private sources estimate that 70,000 tons of off-contract barley from earlier harvests is still available in silo bags on farmer fields. Limited subsoil moisture despite recent rain during the current fall season around the province of Buenos Aires, is limiting planting of barley as well as other small grains. Over 76 percent of the barley in Argentina is produced in Buenos Aires province. (For more information, contact Dr. Denise McWilliams, at 202-720-0107.)

Jun 10 2009 | Argentine 2008/09 Soybeans Suffer Reduced Yield in Second Crop
The USDA forecasts Argentine soybean production for 2008/09 at 32.0 million tons, down 2.0 million tons or 6 percent from last month's 34.0 million. Area is estimated at 16.0 million hectares, down 0.5 million or 3 percent decrease from last month. Forecast yield is down slightly from last month at 2.00 tons per hectare, compared to the 5-year average of 2.70 tons per hectare and the record of 2.99 tons per hectare in 2006/07. Persistent drought and high temperatures have plagued much of the soybean crop from planting through harvest. Local accounts indicate additional area losses as well as low yields on second-crop soybeans. Harvest is nearly complete, with only two percent of the crop remaining to be gathered. (For more information, contact Dr. Denise McWilliams, at 202-720-0107.)

Jun 10 2009 | Argentine 2008/09 Sunflowers Boosted by Better-than-Expected Hybrid Yields
Argentine sunflower production for 2008/09 is forecast at 2.9 million tons, up 0.4 million or16 percent from last month's 2.5 million tons. Yield is forecast at 1.71 tons per hectare, a 16 percent increase over last month. Area is estimated at 1.7 million hectares, unchanged from last month. Slight but timely rains during December, January and February aided the early-planted sunflowers and contributed to better-than-expected yields. With ongoing dry conditions, sunflower production is expected to be just higher than the low harvests of 1986/87 and 1987/88, when production was only 2.5 and 2.8 million tons. (For more information, contact Dr. Denise McWilliams, at 202-720-0107.)

May 19 2009 | World 2009/10 Crop Area and Production Forecasts
The initial USDA country-level area and production estimates for 2009/10 grains, oilseeds, andcotton are provided this month. In previous years, only the initial grain estimates were releasedin May, but this year estimates for oilseeds and cotton are provided as well.World wheat area for 2009/10 is estimated at 224 million hectares, down less than 1 percentfrom last year. International prices in September 2008, when many Northern Hemisphere wheatproducers were deciding if they would plant, had declined from a year earlier while prices forcorn and soybeans were stronger. Wheat production is forecast at 658 million metric tons, down25 million tons from 2008/09, when excellent growing conditions occurred in many of the majorproducers.World corn area is forecast at 156 million hectares for 2009/10, unchanged from the previousyear. Reports of farmers foregoing corn planting because of high input costs have been receivedfrom many countries. Corn area is not increasing even though corn prices were high relative towheat, and to a lesser extent soybean, during December to February when many farmers weremaking their corn planting decisions. Corn production is forecast virtually unchanged at 788million tons as corn planting in the Northern Hemisphere is underway.World soybean area is forecast at 99 million hectares up 2 million. Production is forecast at 242million tons, up 29 million from 2008/09. Much of the increase results from an expectation ofrecovery in Argentina and Brazil which suffered from extreme drought in major producing areas.World international soybean/corn price ratios from October through December favored corn, buthigher production costs have favored soybeans, which require fewer inputs. (For moreinformation, contact Paul Provance 202-720-0873.)

May 19 2009 | Argentina: Dry Weather Reduces Estimated Harvested Area for 2009/10 Wheat
The USDA forecasts Argentine wheat production for 2009/10 at 11.0 million tons, up 31 percentfrom last season's 8.4 million tons but 35 percent less than the 2007/08 harvest. Area isestimated at 4.0 million hectares, 0.2 million hectares below last year and the lowest level since1992/93, due to continued dry weather and limited soil moisture reserves. Yield is forecast at2.75 tons per hectare, compared to the 5-year average yield (not including 2008/09) of 2.80 tonsper hectare. Argentina's wheat crop is planted in May and will be harvested in December. Raincontinues to be limited and scattered as the provinces of Buenos Aires and Cordoba enter what isnormally the dry season. Many areas need 8 to 12 inches of additional rain above seasonalaverage in order to compensate below normal soil moisture reserves and produce an averagewheat crop. (For additional information, contact Dr. Denise McWilliams, at 202-720-0107.)

May 19 2009 | Argentina: Soybean Harvest for 2008/09 Progresses Rapidly with Below-Averag
The USDA forecasts Argentine soybean production for 2008/09 at 34.0 million tons, down 5.0million or 13 percent from last month. Area is estimated at 16.5 million hectares, unchangedfrom last month. Yield is forecast at 2.06 tons per hectare, down 13 percent from last month andcompared to the record 2.99 tons per hectare in 2006/07 and the 5-year average of 2.70 tons perhectare. Argentina's soybean crop was planted in October and is being harvested now.Warm and dry weather has continued in Argentina, allowing harvest to proceed at a rapid pace.Soybeans are over 85 percent harvested across the country. Yields are lower than expected, withpoor quality of both first- and second-crop beans. Frost in Buenos Aires province has furtherreduced potential yield of already-drought-damaged late-harvested first crop soybeans aroundTres Arroyos. In Laboulaye in Cordoba province, only 25 percent of the crop will be harvesteddue to uneven maturity and expected low yield. In La Pampa, yields are highly variable. InSanta Fe province, yields are low in Avellaneda delegation where some fields are being divertedfor animal feed, but yields are higher in Casilda delegation due to timely rains in February. Inthe typically lower-yielding northern regions, soybeans generally did well with average or'slightly below-average yields. (For additional information, contact Dr. Denise McWilliams, at202-720-0107.)

Apr 9 2009 | Argentine Soybeans Suffer through Season
The USDA forecasts Argentine soybean production for 2008/09 at 39.0 million tons, down 4 million tons, a 9 percent reduction from last month's 43.0 million tons. Area is estimated at 16.5 million hectares, a 4 percent decrease over last month's 17.2 million hectares. Yield is forecast at 2.36 tons per hectare, lower than last month's 2.50, compared to the record high 2.99 in 2006/07 and the 5-year average of 2.70. The earlier hot and dry weather pattern continues decreasing pod number and limiting bean count and size within each pod. Scattered rains have not provided enough moisture to parched fields in order to salvage better-than-normal production. The diverse planting dates for soybeans have aided insect movement as pests continued to find harbor in more immature fields. The erratic rains, once thought to have helped second crop soybeans and some late-planted first crop beans, have not necessarily benefited plants into harvest. In some cases, indeterminate soybean plants have initiated flowering again, leaving plants with a wider mix of seed maturity in fields. In other cases, plants have increased late season-leaf canopy thus compromising seed-fill and yield. During April temperatures dipped to 7oC for two nights within the province of Buenos Aires. This has elicted concern that some second crop soybeans as well as late-flowering first-crop beans may not make full maturity. Harvesting soy at low seed moisture is critical in Argentina as facilities are not available to dry down soybeans. Some seed lots have already come in with a portion of the harvest as immature green beans, lessening crop quality. By April 2, 2009, 25 percent of the crop had been harvested as compared to only 11 percent last year. With over 30 percent of the crop now out of the field, the hope is that more fields are not turned over to grazing or lost to frost, further lessen tonnage this year. (For more information, contact Denise McWilliams 202-720-0107.)

Apr 9 2009 | Argentine Grain Sorghum Limited in Yield
The USDA forecasts Argentine grain sorghum production for 2008/09 at 2.3 million tons, down 0.7 million tons, a 23 percent reduction from last month's 3.0 million tons. Area is estimated at 0.70 million hectares, the same as last month. Yield is forecast at 3.29 tons per hectare, down from 4.29 tons per hectare last month, compared to the record high 5.09 tons per hectare in 2002/03 and the 5-year average of 4.66 tons per hectare. Even a heat-tolerant crop such as grain sorghum was not immune from the hot, dry conditions in Argentina this year. Much of the crop was planted later than normal. Panicle size varies greatly this season because of the variable heat, drought and available soil moisture reserves throughout the season. In drier areas, irregular grain filling is most noticeable, as well as quickening crop progress toward maturity. In some of these poor crop regions, fields are not being treated for aphids and sorghum midge. Many fields show inconsistency in yields, particularly in the provinces of Santa Fe, Entre Rios and Buenos Aires. Grain sorghum in the province of Buenos Aires is showing irregular plant development with physiological stages varying from flowering in the South to mature in the North. Sorghum within the province of Cordoba has some fields in good condition and others that show lack of moisture from the soil profile for final grain-fill. Fields are better near Venado Tuerto, but only with average yields. Within Entre Rios, seed development is mixed. Some fields are being converted from grain collection to forage. In this province, yields vary depending on amount of moisture received within the area. Crops within Santa Fe are generally poor, with some already directly grazed or harvested for forage use later. Within the department of San Jeronimo, near the town of Lopez, 60 percent of the crop is lost. Much of this crop was cut for forage in La Pampa. Crop condition is also very poor in Chaco. Temperatures for several consecutive days during the season were so high in one region of Chaco that some fields are showing leaf burn from sun scorch. (For more information, contact Denise McWilliams 202- 720-0107.)

Mar 11 2009 | Argentina Soybeans: Rain Improves Crop Conditions But Could Complicate Harv
The USDA forecasts Argentine soybean production for 2008/09 at 43.0 million tons, down 0.8 million tons, a 2 percent reduction from last month's 43.8 million tons. Area is estimated at 17.2 million hectares, a 2 percent decrease under last month's 17.5 million hectares. Yield is forecast at 2.50 tons per hectare, the same as last month, compared to the record high 2.99 tons per hectare in 2006/07 and the 5-year average of 2.70 tons per hectare. Hot, dry weather has had detrimental effects on pod number, seeds per pod and viability of crop. Difficult weather has resulted in variable plant stands and crop heights, which will make harvest more difficult. Erratic rains have generally not replenished soil moisture reserves, particularly in southern Buenos Aires and La Pampa, and may further limit plant production potential. Farmers are combating an unusally widespread influx of insects including caterpillars, spider mites and thrips. In some drier areas, field abandonment is being reported. Recent rains will allow limited recovery of soybeans over much of Argentina, but harvest timing and efficiency will vary widely even within delegations. Green beans may appear in some seed lots harvested where plants have been regenerated by rain. Some late-planted fields may suffer damage in the event of an early frost. (For additional information, contact Dr. Denise McWilliams, at 202-720-0107.)

Feb 10 2009 | Argentine Heat and Dryness Likely to Reduce Cotton Yield
The USDA forecasts Argentine cotton production for 2008/09 at 650,000 bales, down 50,000bales, a 7 percent reduction from last month. Area is estimated at 300,000 hectares, an 8 percentdecrease from last month. Yield is forecast at 472 kilograms per hectare, a 1 percent increasefrom last month and compared to the record high 547 kilograms per hectare in 1987/88.Hot, dry weather continued in Argentina's cotton producing areas throughout January,with stress conditions varying according to field, soil types and planting date. Different soil typeswith varying moisture retention and release capacity have caused plant stands within individualfields to lack uniformity. Plants are maturing at different times depending on planting date,moisture received, and variety used. Moisture was very short in the major growing areas of Chaco and Eastern Santiago del Estero aswell as other cotton growing regions. Harvest will be made difficult this year due to plant heightdifferences in the fields with some low bolls and branches making machinery height adjustmentdifficult. (For additional information, contact Dr. Denise McWilliams, at 202-720-0107.)

Feb 10 2009 | Argentine Corn Crop Hampered with Irregular, Late Rains
The USDA forecasts Argentine corn production for 2008/09 at 13.5 million tons, down 3.0million tons or 18 percent from last month and down 7.35 million or 35 percent from last year.Area is estimated at 2.25 million hectares, down 0.25 million from last month and down 1.01million from last year. Yield is forecast at 6.0 tons per hectare, compared to the record high 8.04tons per hectare in 2006/07 and the five-year average of 6.96 tons per hectare.Continued dry conditions and high temperatures at key corn growth stages have reduced yieldand production expectations, particularly in Entre Rios, Santa Fe and areas of Buenos Aires.Rain was less than 25 percent of normal during December and dryness continued through mid-January. Only scant, scattered showers appeared in some corn growing regions in mid-January.Better rains last week were too little, too late as most of the southern corn moved into limitedgrain-fill stage toward an earlier-than-normal maturation.Corn mites have limited yield not only on field edges in the dry areas but within entire fields.Some Fusarium ear rot has infected corn ears in stressed fields, again limiting yield expectation.In worst-case fields, corn is being baled for forage or grazed.In better fields, ear tips are not filling and in some even drier fields ear tips and the butt-ends ofcobs are missing kernels due to heat stress during pollination. (For additional information,contact Dr. Denise McWilliams, at 202-720-0107.)

Feb 10 2009 | Soybeans Suffering in Argentina Despite Recent Rains
The USDA forecasts Argentine soybean production for 2008/09 at 43.8 million tons, down 5.7million tons, a 12 percent reduction from last month. Area is estimated at 17.5 million hectares,a 3 percent decrease from last month. Yield is forecast at 2.50 tons per hectare, a 9 percentdecrease from last month and compared to the record high 2.99 tons per hectare in 2006/07.Hot, dry weather continued to affect Argentine soybean producing areas throughout January withmany provinces receiving only 10 to 74 percent normal precipitation during the month.Maximum daily temperatures often remained above 30oC to 40oC across the growing regionsduring the day, stressing plants further in already droughty soils.Many areas have seen low rainfall, the lowest on record since 1961. Rapid soil moistureevaporation further deteriorated plant conditions with limited scattered rain appearing throughJanuary. Much of the first crop of soybeans was in the critical flowering to beginning pod-fill stagesduring intense heat and drought. The last areas originally planned for soybean production werenot planted in January. Recent rains may end planting or in other cases allow some last, late planting to occur.Estimates currently suggest that first crop soybeans may have lost 30 to 60 percent of potentialyield. Some crops in the hardest hit fields in Entre Rios may be irreversibly damaged or alreadylost. Stand population, seeds per pod and pod count vary drastically across fields and soil types.Good February rains and soil moisture availability will be necessary for some recovery of yieldpotential and production. (For additional information, contact Dr. Denise McWilliams at 202-720-0107.)

Jan 12 2009 | Argentine Corn Stressed by Drought
The USDA forecasts Argentine corn production for 2008/09 at 16.5 million tons, down 1.5million or 8 percent from last month and down 4.35 million or 21 percent from last year. Area isestimated at 2.50 million hectares, down 0.07 million from last month and down 0.76 millionfrom last year. Yield is forecast at 6.60 tons per hectare, compared to the record high 8.04 tonsper hectare in 2006/07 and the five-year average of 6.96 tons per hectare.Dry conditions and high temperatures have lowered yield and production expectations,particularly in the states of Entre Rios, Santa Fe and northern Buenos Aires. Rain was less than25 percent of normal during December, making this the worst drought in 70 years. Thecontinued dryness and the lateness of the planting window have reduced sown area. As ofDecember 31, only 91 percent of the corn area had been planted.Lower commodity prices and the high cost of production will cut profits this year. Fertilizer useon the corn crop was limited, and the current extreme drought has further discouraged farmersfrom finishing planting all of the originally expected corn area. With half the crop already in thelate vegetative to early silking stages or beyond, the multiple bouts of dryness that have hit cornwill produce mixed yields. Highly variable development will complicate crop management andharvest. (For more information, contact Denise McWilliams at 202-720-0107.)

Jan 12 2009 | Early-Planted Argentine Soybeans Enter Critical Growth Stage under Dry Cond
The USDA forecasts Argentine soybean production for 2008/09 at 49.50 million tons, down 1.0million or 2 percent from last month. Area is estimated at 18.0 million hectares, a 1 percentdecrease from last month's 18.2 million hectares. Yield is forecast at 2.75 tons per hectare,down 1 percent from last month and below the record high of 2.99 tons per hectare in 2006/07and the 5-year average of 2.70 tons per hectare.Hot, dry weather affected much of Argentina's agricultural areas during December, with manyareas receiving only 25 percent or less of average precipitation for the month. Temperatureswere generally above 30 degrees Celsius across the soybean growing regions, and temperaturesexceeded 35 degrees in northeast Argentina, parts of Corrientes, the major part of Entre Rios,extreme northern Buenos Aires and throughout Santa Fe. Rapid soil moisture evaporationfurther aggravated the drought situation, which will become critical if significant rains do notarrive by the second half of January. This has been the worst drought in 70 years in the centralfarming belt. Dryness has delayed planting by about one week compared to last year.Continued planting is questionable due to the lateness of the season, high production costs, lowcommodity prices, and severe drought. (For more information, contact Denise McWilliams at202-720-0107.)

Jan 12 2009 | Heat and Drought Reduce Yield Prospects for Paraguay Soybeans
The USDA forecasts Paraguay's soybean production for 2008/09 at 5.60 million tons, down 14percent from last month's 6.50 million tons. Area is estimated at 2.45 million hectares, down 2percent from last month's 2.5 million hectares. Yield is forecast at 2.29 tons per hectare, a 12percent decrease from last month's 2.6 tons per hectare and below the record high 2.9 tons perhectare in 2002/03.Hot, dry weather affected Paraguay's soybean producing areas during December, with someareas receiving less than 25 percent of average precipitation for the month. High temperaturesfurther depleted soil moisture supplies and reduced production prospects. Dry weather is'stressing the soybean crop as it enters the blooming and pod-setting stages. Planting wascompleted in late December under extremely dry conditions and some fields may have to bereplanted or abandoned.Some soybean cropland in Paraguay may also be lost this year due to land exchange agreementsthat have been enacted in response to recent raids on farms by protesting indigenous groups.Through negotiations, a first agreement was reached between the Coordinating Committee forthe Defense of Sovereignty and Agrarian Reform and a group of Brazilian landowners inParaguay to sell 22,000 hectares back to the Paraguayan state, which will be funded throughrevenues from the Paraguayan-Brazilian Itaipu hydroelectric dam. This land is expected in turnto be distributed to indigenous farmers and retired from soybean production. Production fromthis land is uncertain during the 2008/09 season. (For more information, contact DeniseMcWilliams at 202-720-0107.)

Dec 11 2008 | Argentina Sunflowers: Dry November Weather Limits Planting
The USDA forecasts Argentine sunflowerseed production for 2008/09 at 3.80 million tons, down 0.60 million tons from the October estimate. Area is estimated at 2.20 million hectares, a 12 percent decrease from the previous estimate of 2.50 million hectares. Yield is forecast at 1.73 tons per hectare, compared to the record high 2.11 tons per hectare in 1994/1995 and the fiveyear average of 1.73 tons per hectare. Hot, dry weather affected much of the Argentine sunflower producing areas during November and reduced planted area. Rainfall was insufficient in southern Buenos Aires, Cordoba, and parts of Entre Rios, Santa Fe, Chaco, and other northern sunflower-producing provinces. The dry weather delayed planting: only 24 and 44 percent, respectively, of the intended planted areas of Tandil and Tres Arroyos in southern Buenos Aires had been sown through November, compared to 57 and 54 percent at the same time last year. Price decreases in sunflowerseed and sunflower oil contributed to a decrease in crush from last year's crop and further discouraged farmers from finishing this year's late plantings. Frost affected some emerged sunflowers near Gral Viamonte, Junin, Chacabuco and Chivilcoy, and the damaged areas are now expected to be replanted to soybeans. High costs for weed and insect control, fertilizer, and land preparation also shifted late sunflower planting into more cheaplygrown soybeans this year. (For more information, contact Denise McWilliams at 202 720-0107.)

Dec 11 2008 | Argentina Soybeans: Area Shifted to Soybeans from Sunflowers and Corn
The USDA forecasts Argentine soybean production for 2008/09 at 50.5 million tons, unchanged from last month. Area is estimated at 18.2 million hectares, up 1 percent from last month. Yield is forecast at 2.77 tons per hectare, compared to the record high of 2.99 tons per hectare in 2006/07 and the five-year average of 2.70 tons per hectare. Hot, dry weather affected much of the Argentine agricultural producing areas during November. Recent rainfall brought muchneeded moisture that has energized planting activities for soybeans. Soybeans will be planted in sunflower and corn areas that were severely damaged by drought, frost and hail. Decreased prices for sunflowerseed, sunflower oil and corn led to reduced planted area as the optimum planting windows closed, thus allowing more soybeans to be planted. Some wheat area was also harvested earlier than expected or was grazed due to drought conditions, prompting land preparation and soybean planting as first-crop beans. Lower input costs including less need for fertilizer for soybeans and the ability to shift to earlier soy varieties will allow more first and second crop beans to be planted. (For more information, contact Denise McWilliams at 202 720-0107.)

Dec 11 2008 | Argentina Wheat: Lower Area and Production Estimates for 2008/09
The USDA estimates Argentine wheat production at 10.5 million tons, down 0.5 million or 5 percent from last month. Estimated output is 36 percent less than last year's production of 16.3 million tons and below the record of 16.5 million tons achieved in 1999/2000. Wheat area for 2008/09 is estimated at 4.2 million hectares, down from 4.3 million hectares last month, due to dry conditions during the growing season. Yield estimated at 2.50 tons per hectare, about the same as last month but 12 percent below last year's 2.83 tons per hectare. With the harvest of small grains underway in Argentina, drought conditions during the establishment, growth, and maturation stages have led to variable yields in regions that usually have high production. Frost during early establishment in many areas may also have contributed to poorer yields this year. The wheat harvest was more than one-third complete by December 6th. (For more information, contact Denise McWilliams at 202-720-0107.)

Oct 10 2008 | Argentine Sunseed Area Lowered for 2008/09
The USDA forecasts Argentina's sunseed area for 2008/09 at 2.5 million hectares, down 0.34million or 12 percent from last month and down 3 percent from last year. Yield is expected toremain at 1.76 tons per hectare, slightly less than last year's 1.80 tons. Production is forecast at4.4 million tons, down 0.6 million from last month and down 0.23 million or 5 percent from lastyear. Planted sunflower area is down from previously forecast levels due to drought extendinginto the optimum planting window for sunflowers in northern cropping regions and a recentdecline in prices for sunseed and sunflower oil. Planting has slowed due to low soil moisture, andfarmers have planted only about 13 percent of the crop to date, down 30 percent from the samedate last year. Severe drought during late winter and early spring, rising costs of production andfalling sunseed prices have stopped many Argentine farmers from planting sunflowers this'season. (For more information, contact Dr. Denise McWilliams, South American Crop Analyst,202-720-0107.)

Sep 12 2008 | Argentina: Wheat Area Limited by Dry Conditions
The USDA forecasts Argentine wheat production for 2008/2009 at 12.5 million tons, down 3.5million tons or 22 percent from last year and down 1 million tons or 7 percent from last month.Area is estimated at 4.5 million hectares, down 1.18 million hectares from last year and down 0.2million hectares from last month, and the lowest level in 12 years. Due to the low estimatedarea, forecast production is also the lowest in 12 years. Yield is forecast at 2.78 tons per hectare,compared to the record high of 2.90 tons per hectare seen in 2005/2006 and the five-year averageof 2.75 tons per hectare. Continued dry conditions this winter has not only hindered wheatplanting but has now placed about one-third of the crop at jeopardy during the sensitive early'stages of crop emergence and early growth. Temperatures were above normal during much ofthe winter, but recent cold weather may have resulted in frost damage in many parts of the wheatgrowing area, especially in late-planted fields. (For more information, please call DeniseMcWilliams at 202-720-0107.)

Sep 12 2008 | Argentina: Soybean Area Forecast to Increase Again in 2008/2009
The USDA forecasts Argentine soybean production for 2008/2009 at a record 50.5 million tons,up 1.0 million or 2 percent from last month and up 4 million or 9 percent from last year. Area isestimated at a record 18.0 million hectares, up 0.3 million from last month and up 1.63 millionfrom last year. Yield is forecast at 2.80 tons per hectare, compared to the 2.99 tons-per-hectarerecord high in 2006/2007 and the five-year average of 2.71 tons per hectare. Incentive to plantcontinues to escalate due in part to increasing fertilizer prices, higher seed costs, and greater fuelexpenses which favors soybeans over alternative crops. Continued dry weather in many areas ofArgentina has also limited wheat planting and stimulated farmers to plan for first-crop soybeansin the spring. Planting full-season soybeans, as compared to second-crop soybeans followingwheat, can boost yield up to 20 percent, implying an expected yield for soybeans in the newproduction year of 2.80 metric tons per hectare. (For more information, please call DeniseMcWilliams at 202-720-0107.)

Sep 12 2008 | Argentina: Corn Area Forecast to Decrease for 2008/09
The USDA forecasts Argentine corn production for 2008/2009 at 19.0 million tons, down 1.5million tons or 7 percent from last year and down 3.0 million or 14 percent from last month.Area is estimated at 2.70 million hectares, down 0.30 million hectares from last month and down0.51 million from last year. Yield is forecast at 7.04 tons per hectare, compared to the recordhigh 8.04 tons per hectare in 2006/2007 and the five-year average of 6.96 tons per hectare.Several factors are likely to contribute to the forecast reduction in planted area: high exporttaxes during the first half of 2008, halts on corn exports, and higher input costs. Some seedorders are already being refused delivery by farmers as they consider switching some area fromcorn to oilseed crops. High production costs as well as market and harvest uncertainties havecaused farmers in Argentina to consider planting crops requiring less fertilizer, pesticides, andlabor than corn. In areas where dairies are located, farmers will plant enough corn to satisfy feeddemands, but limited incentive to increase production beyond local demand will likely limit cornarea for 2008/09. (For more information, please call Denise McWilliams at 202-720-0107.)

Aug 12 2008 | Argentina: Corn Area and Production Decline
The USDA forecasts Argentina corn production for 2008/09 at 22.0 million tons, down 1.5 million from last month. Farmers in Argentina are expected to reduce planted area this year owing to high input costs as well as the recent export tariff conflict. Area is forecast at 3.0 million hectares, down 0.1 million from last month and last year. Yield is forecast to drop slightly to 7.33 tons per hectare due to expected lower fertilizer use. In recent weeks, corn export taxes were decreased to 23 percent. A short lived increase in the export tax rate, along with fertilizer price increases of around 20 percent have caused Argentine farmers not to put additional ground to corn production. Argentina corn production reached a record 22.5 million tons from 2.8 million hectares in 2006/20007. (For more information, contact Denise McWilliams at 202-720-0107.)

Aug 12 2008 | Argentina: Soybean Area to Increase in 2008/2009
The dry weather in northern Argentina that prevented winter wheat planting is a factor in increasing soybean area by an estimated 0.6 million hectares this month, to a record 17.7 million hectares. With this added area going into full-season soybeans rather than second-crop beans following wheat, production is expected to increase by over 3 percent to 49.5 million tons. Fullseason soybeans can yield up to 20 percent more than second-crop soybeans in Argentina, which is supportive of overall yield. Trend yields suggest a potential yield of 2.8 tons per hectare for the coming year if currently dry northern areas receive beneficial rainfall. Reducing the slidingscale tariffs that were imposed on soybeans earlier this year (from 46.6 to 35 percent) has provided incentive to plant more soybeans, along with recent news that the Argentine government will suspend plans to raise grain export taxes. Area could increase even further with the conversion of pasture to soybeans. A new AE Biofuels soy biodiesel plant in Rosario, with an extraction capacity of 75 million gallons, is slated to open in late 2009 and will likely provide even more incentive to push soybean planting in Argentina next year. (For more information, contact Denise McWilliams at 202-720-0107.)

Aug 12 2008 | Argentina: Dry Weather Hampers Sowing Campaign for Wheat
The USDA forecasts Argentina wheat production for 2008/09 at 13.5 million tons, down 1.0 million from last month and down 2.5 million from last year. Area is estimated at 4.7 million hectares, down 0.4 million from last month and down 1.0 million from last year. Yield is forecast at 2.87 tons per hectare, up slightly from last year's 2.82 tons per hectare. Dry planting conditions have caused sowing delays for winter wheat throughout much of Cordoba, Santa Fe, Chaco, Entre Rios and northern Buenos Aires, and will likely result in reduced area for 2008/09. The optimum planting windows for winter wheat typically extends from May through mid-July. Similarly dry conditions is limiting planting and may reduce yields in the spring wheat region farther north. High export taxes in effect during the first half of 2008 is discouraging the planting of wheat and encouraging farmers to plant oilseeds instead. The recent dissolution of the controversial Resolution 125 moving-scale grain tax has lowered wheat export tariffs to 20 percent, but the reprieve may have occurred too late to have a significant effect on wheat area. (For more information, contact Denise McWilliams at 202-720-0107.)

Jun 10 2008 | Argentina: Rains Arrive But Wheat Planting Still Behind
Argentina's 2008/09 wheat production is forecast 14.5 million tons, down 0.5 million from lastmonth and down 1.5 million from last year. Area harvest data is forecast at 5.1 million hectares,down 0.2 million from last month. With very limited rain in much of Argentina through Apriland May, wheat planting for this year is significantly delayed as of the end of May. In theprovince of Buenos Aires, the lack of soil moisture has set Bahia Blanca behind in planting withonly 18 percent (53,500 hectares) of the expected area seeded. In Cordoba, planting is running very late withmoisture insufficient even for seed emergence in many locations. In Entre Rios, only three percent of the intended area iscurrently planted and La Pampa, which did receive some rain during the third week of May, has soils that are just now in shapefor land preparation prior to planting. Santa Fe is showing slow emergence of wheat seedlings with only six percent of fields currentlyemerging. Wheat planting is lagging this year according to the Secretary of Agriculture and confirmed by thegrain exchange, Bolsa de Cereales de Buenos Aires (BCBA) with crop planting now totaling only 568,000 hectares or10.4 percent of the useful area, 5 percent behind last year. (For more information, contact DeniseMcWilliams at 202-720-0107.)

May 9 2008 | Paraguay 2007/08 Soybean Crop Adjusted Lower
Paraguay soybean production is estimated at 6.8 million tons this month for 2007/08, down 0.2 million based on a report from the Foreign Agricultural Service's Office of Agricultural Affairs based in Buenos Aires. Area harvested is estimated at 2.6 million hectares, down 0.2 million from last month, while yield is estimated at 2.62 tons per hectare, up 5 percent. The crop faired well during the growing season, but area was not as high as previous estimates. High yields occurred in northern growing areas due to good rains during the season. Post contacts reported that there were earlier problems with soybean rust, but that it was controlled. (For more information, contact Denise McWilliams at 202-720-0107.)

Feb 8 2008 | Argentina: Dryness Reduces Yield Prospects
The USDA forecasts Argentine corn production for 2007/08 at 21.5 million tons, down 1.0 million or 4 percent from last month and last year. Area is estimated at 3.1 million hectares, up 0.1 million from last month and up 0.3 million from last year based on Argentine Ministry of Agriculture planting reports. Yield is forecast at 6.94 tons per hectare, compared to the record high 8.04 tons per hectare last year and the five-year average of 6.95 tons per hectare. The U.S. attaché in Buenos Aires reports that earlier adverse dryness has lowered yields, and that although recent rain showers brought moisture to the region, some yield losses are irreversible. (For more information, contact Denise McWilliams at 202-720-0107.)

Jan 11 2008 | Argentina Corn in Silking and Tasseling Stage
The USDA estimates Argentine corn production for 2007/08 at 22.5 million tons, unchanged from last month and matching last year's record output. Harvested area is estimated at 3.0 million hectares, unchanged from last month and up 0.2 million from last year. Yield is estimated at 7.50 tons per hectare, unchanged from last month but 7 percent below last year's record. According to the Ministry of Agriculture, planting was finished in Buenos Aires and 93 percent complete in Cordoba as of January 3. These two provinces are roughly 60 percent of the total Argentine corn area. Recent dryness has halted further planting in Cordoba, Santa Fe, Entre Rios and the northern provinces of Chaco and Santiago del Estero. To date, a reported 3.6 million hectares have been planted against the official forecast of 4.0 million. Over 50 percent of the corn crop has reached silking/tasseling, when the crop is especially vulnerable to heat and moisture stress. Recent hot weather will likely not cause significant damage, but subsoil moisture reserves are becoming depleted following persistent dryness since early November. Final yields will hinge in large part on January rainfall. (For additional information, contact Denise McWilliams at 202-359-8286.)

Dec 11 2007 | Argentina: Record Yield Forecast for Wheat
The USDA estimates Argentina wheat production for 2007/08 at 15.0 million tons, down 0.5million or 3 percent from last month and down 0.2 million or 1 percent from last year. Area isestimated at 5.2 million hectares, unchanged from last month and down 0.1 million from lastyear. A brief cold-weather episode in mid-November reduced yield prospects in central BuenosAires province (chiefly the Tandil and Bolivar regions) and, to a lesser extent, in neighboringprovinces.

Nov 13 2007 | Argentina: Record Yield Forecast for Wheat
The USDA estimates Argentine wheat production for 2007/08 at 15.5 million tons, up 1.0million from last month and up 0.3 million from last year. Area is estimated at 5.2 millionhectares, up 0.2 million from last month and down 0.1 million from last year. Yield hasincreased nearly every year since 2002/03 and is forecast at a record 3.0 tons per hectare for2007/08, marking a 44-percent increase over the past five years. The U.S. agricultural attaché inBuenos Aires reports that current conditions for wheat are excellent following beneficial rainfalland favorably warm weather.

Jun 11 2007 | Argentinas Wheat Planting Intentions Revised Upward
Argentinas wheat production for 2007/08 is forecast at 14.0 million tons, up 9 percent from lastmonth, but down 1 percent from last year. Harvested wheat area for 2007/08 is forecast at 5.0million hectares, up 9 percent from last month, but down 5 percent from last year. Yield isforecast at 2.80 tons per hectare, which is nearly unchanged from last month, but up 4 percentfrom last year.

Jun 11 2007 | Argentina Record Soybean Production in 2006/07
Argentinas soybean production for 2006/07 is forecast at a record 46.5 million tons, up 3percent from last month and up 15 percent from last year. Harvested soybean area for 2006/07is forecast at a record 15.9 million hectares, up 1 percent from last month and up 5 percent fromlast year. Yield is forecast at a record 2.92 tons per hectare, up 1 percent from last month and up10 percent from last year.

May 14 2007 | Record Production Forecast for Paraguay Soybeans
Paraguays soybean production for 2006/07 is forecast at a record 6.0 million tons, up 0.5million from last month, and up 2.4 million from last year. Harvested area for 2006/07 isforecast at 2.4 million hectares, up 0.3 million from last month, and up 0.4 million from lastyear. Yield is forecast at 2.55 tons per hectare, which is slightly reduced from last month, butup 40 percent from last year. This years record production is the result of optimal weatherthroughout most of the soybean growing region.

Apr 10 2007 | Record Argentina Soybeans Forecast Despite Unfavorable Recent Weather
Argentinas soybean production for 2006/07 is forecast at a record 45.5 million tons, up 3percent from last month and up 12 percent from last year. Harvested soybean area for 2006/07 isforecast at a record 15.8 million hectares, unchanged from last month and up 4 percent from lastyear. Yield is forecast at 2.88 tons per hectare, up 4 percent from last month and up 8 percentfrom last year. Approximately 300,000 hectares of soybean area was damaged due to heavy rainsand flooding in Entre Rios, Santa Fe, Cordoba, and Buenos Aires during the last week of March.Most of the losses will occur in Santa Fe and Entre Rios which account for 29 and 7 percent ofthe total production respectively. Despite losses of approximately 0.5 to 2 million tons, a recordforecast production is maintained due to optimal weather for most of the growing season,especially in Cordoba and Buenos Aires, and very high early reported yields. Soybean qualityand transportation are more affected by the rains than production. As of March 29th, harvest was11 percent complete compared to 18 percent this time last year, according to the ArgentinasSecretariat of Agriculture (SAGPyA). Soybean harvest came to a halt due to the weather and itwill be at least one week before fieldwork can resume. First crop soybeans have reachedmaturity and second crop soybeans are in pod fill. (For more information, contact NicoleWagner at 202-720-0882).

Apr 10 2007 | Despite Rains, Record Corn Expected in Argentina
Argentinas corn production for 2006/07 is forecast at a record 22.00 million tons, up 2 percentfrom last month, and up 39 percent from last year. Harvested area is forecast at 2.85 millionhectares, unchanged from last month and up 17 percent from last year. Yield is forecast at arecord 7.72 tons per hectare, which is up 2 percent from last month and up 19 percent from lastyear. As of March 29, harvest progress was 19 percent complete, compared to 20 percentcomplete at this time last year. Entre Rios and Santa Fe provinces, which are 78 and 43 percentcomplete, lead harvest progress. Buenos Aires and Cordoba provinces, which account for themajority of corn area, are 22 and 6 percent complete, respectively. Argentinas corn was not asaffected by the severe rains and flooding as soybeans since mature corn can withstand wetnessbetter than soybeans. Furthermore, relatively more of the corn crop was harvested than the'soybean crop, especially in the wetter areas of Entre Rios and Santa Fe, which led corn harvestprogress. If wet conditions persist, however, susceptibility to diseases and lodging, as well aslosses in quality will increase. Before the rains halted harvest activity, the average nation-wideyield was an impressive 8.8 tons per hectare on 766,000 hectares, or 28 percent of the plantedarea, according to the Buenos Aires Grain Exchange (BCBA). With the return of dry weather,the current forecast yield will be attainable. (For more information, contact Nicole Wagner at202-720-0882).

Feb 26 2007 | Argentina: Soybean Production Forecast at Record Level
The USDA forecasts Argentina soybean production for 2006/07 at a record 44.0 million tons, up1.5 million or 4 percent from last month and up 9 percent from last years record crop.Harvested area is estimated at 15.8 million hectares, up 0.1 million from last month and up 0.6million from last years record. First-crop soybeans account for about 75 percent of total output.Favorable soil moisture conditions following the wheat harvest, combined with attractiveinternational prices, likely encouraged farmers to boost the area of second-crop soybeans thisyear. In most production regions of Argentina, soybeans are currently advancing through theflowering or pod-filling stages. The U.S. agricultural attaché in Buenos Aires reports thatcurrent conditions for soybeans are estimated to be considerably better than two years ago, whenyield reached 2.71 tons per hectare. The attaché reports also that this seasons first case of rustwas observed on February 1 in Entre Rios province (which accounts for about 10 percent of thecountrys total soybean area), but maintains that the outstanding current conditions still supportthe increased yield estimate. (For more information, contact Nicole Wagner at 202-720-0882.)

Feb 26 2007 | Argentina: Record Corn Crop Forecast
The USDA estimates Argentina corn production for 2006/07 at a record 21.0 million tons, up 2.0million or 11 percent from last month and up 5.2 million or 33 percent from last year. Harvestedarea is estimated at 2.85 million hectares against 2.70 million last month and 2.44 million lastyear. According to forecasts from the Agriculture Secretariat and the Buenos Aires GrainExchange (BOLSA), planted area for 2006/07 totaled 3.5 million hectares. The amount ofunharvested area (including abandonment and silage) is forecast at 18 percent against 23 percentlast year and the ten-year average of 20 percent. The lower loss/forage estimate is based in parton favorable grain prices which likely will reduce the area cut for silage. Yield is estimated tomatch the record of 7.37 tons per hectare achieved in 2004/05 because of increased fertilizerapplication and outstanding weather in the main production zones. Satellite-derived vegetativeindices from mid-January indicate that overall vegetative vigor throughout Argentinas maincorn and soybean region was better than average and significantly better than last year. Theagricultural attaché in Buenos Aires reports that crops are observed to be in good condition andthat yields are forecast to match or surpass the record yields from two years ago. (For moreinformation, contact Nicole Wagner at 202-720-0882.)

Jan 12 2007 | Argentina: Record 2006/07 Soybean Area and Production Forecast
Argentinas soybean production for 2006/07 is forecast at a record 42.5 million tons, up 0.5million from last month and up 2.0 million from last year. Harvested area is forecast at a record15.7 million hectares, unchanged from last month and up 0.5 million from last year. Yield isforecast at 2.71 tons per hectare, slightly up from last month, and just above last years yield of2.66 tons per hectare. As of January 4, planting progress was 87 percent complete compared to91 percent this time last year, according to the Argentinas Secretariat of Agriculture (SAGPyA).In Cordoba, planting progress was delayed earlier this season due to dryness, and has remained'slightly behind schedule for most of the planting window, due to frequent showers. Second-crop'soybeans still need to be planted in Río Cuarto and San Francisco delegations of Cordobaprovince, as well as in several of the Northern provinces. Crop development has advancedrapidly due to abundant rainfall and warm weather. Most of the first-crop soybeans are floweringand the most advanced soybeans are in the pod-filling stage in Santa Fe and Cordoba. Currently'soil moisture is rated very good while disease and pest problems have been minimal. Optimalearly growing conditions have improved the likelihood of obtaining better than average yields.(For more information, contact Nicole Wagner at 202-720-0882.)

Dec 12 2006 | Argentina: Record Soybean Area and Productio
Argentina's soybean production for 2006/07 is forecast at a record 42.0 million tons, up 0.7 million hectares from last month and up 1.5 million from last year. Harvested soybean area for 2006/07 is forecast at a record 15.7 million hectares, up 0.3 million hectares from last month and up 0.5 million from last year. Yield is forecast at 2.68 tons per hectare, unchanged from last month but slightly above last year's yield of 2.66 tons per hectare and the 5-year average yield of 2.64 tons per hectare. Planting progress as of November 23 was 53 percent complete, compared to 55 percent at this time last year. Planting is slightly behind schedule in the largest-producing soybean province of Cordoba due to early season dryness. Dryness was also threatening planting progress and yield potential in the southern soybean province of Buenos Aires; however, most of Argentina's soybean regions received significant and timely rains during the last week of November. According to Argentina's Secretariat of Agriculture (SAGPyA), first-crop soybean planted area accounted for 78 percent of total soybean planted area in 2005/06, however in 2006/07 first-crop soybean will account for 73 percent, illustrating a growth of second-crop soybean area, especially in the northern areas of Chaco and Santiago del Estero. (For more information, contact Nicole Wagner at 202-720-0882)

Dec 12 2006 | Argentina: Corn Production Forecast Above Last Year
Argentina's corn production for 2006/07 is forecast at 19.0 million tons, up 1.5 million tons from last month and up 3.2 million from last year. Harvested corn area for 2006/07 is forecast at 2.7 million hectares, up 0.2 million hectares from last month and up 0.3 million from last year. Yield is forecast at 7.04 tons per hectare, which is nearly unchanged from last month but up 9 percent from last year. Planting progress as of November 23 was 75 percent complete, the same as last year at this time, according to Argentina's Secretariat of Agriculture (SAGPyA). Most of the remaining unsown area is in the Northern provinces. Entre Rios and Buenos Aires provinces, which are 100 and 99 percent complete, lead planting progress. Planting in Cordoba is slightly behind schedule due to early season dryness. Parallel with SAGPyA's increase in planting intentions, USDA has increased its harvested area estimate based on strong corn prices. Despite recent official efforts to keep prices moderate in Argentina's domestic corn market, prices have risen significantly. The price ratio between corn and soy is the highest in the past ten years. Yield is forecast to be high this year due to good planting weather, high levels of fertilization, and increased use of GMO (primarily Bt) corn varieties. (For more information, contact Nicole Wagner at 202-720-0882)

Nov 9 2006 | Argentina Sunflowerseed Expected Up 5 Percent
Argentina's 2006/07 sunflowerseed production is forecast at 4.0 million tons, unchanged from last month, but up 5 percent from last year. Harvested area for 2006/07 is forecast at 2.3 million hectares, unchanged from last month, but up 5 percent from last year. Yield is forecast at 1.74 tons per hectare, unchanged from last month and similar to last year. Argentina's Ministry of Agriculture (SAGPyA) reported that planting was 50 percent complete, compared with 60 percent this time last year. Planting is slightly behind last year in the main producing provinces of Buenos Aires and La Pampa due to early season dryness in September, but has been rapidly picking up pace due to beneficial rain showers in October. Moisture in October has been very good in Buenos Aires province, and fair to good in La Pampa and Chaco, thus supporting the forecast yield of 1.74 tons per hectare.Buenos Aires accounts for 52 percent of Argentina's sunflowerseed production. La Pampa province accounts for approximately 16 percent of the production and Chaco has witnessed a dramatic increase in sunflowerseed area over the last 5 years and now accounts for 10 percent of the production. (For more information, contact Nicole Wagner at 202-720-0882.)

Nov 9 2006 | Argentina Soybean Production Forecast To Reach Record Levels
Argentina's soybean production for 2006/07 is forecast at a record 41.3 million tons, unchanged from last month, but up 0.8 million from last year. Harvested area is forecast at a record 15.4 million hectares, unchanged from last month, but up 0.2 million from last year. Yield is forecast at 2.68 tons per hectare, unchanged from last month, virtually matching last year's yield, but slightly above the 5-year average yield of 2.64 tons per hectare. Bolsa de Cereales Buenos Aires' (BCBA) November report indicated that planting progress was 15 percent complete, compared to 13 percent last year. Planting progress has been good in Buenos Aires where moisture has been nearly ideal, but is slightly behind in Córdoba, Santa Fe, and Santiago del Estero where early season dryness persists despite light variable showers. The major producing provinces are Córdoba, Santa Fe, and Buenos Aires, which produce approximately 30, 29, and 21 percent of Argentina's soybean crop, respectively. (For more information, contact Nicole Wagner at 202-720-0882.)

Aug 11 2006 | Argentina wheat area again lowered due to dryness
Argentinas wheat production for 2006/07 is forecast at 13.5 million tons, down 6 percent from last month, but up 8 percent from last year. Harvested wheat area for 2006/07 is forecast at 5.30 million hectares, down 5 percent from last month, but up 8 percent from last year. Yield is forecast at 2.55 tons per hectare, which is above the five-year average of 2.43 tons per hectare, but the same as last year. While the yield forecast is unchanged from last month, wheat production has been lowered based on a decrease in wheat planting intentions due to serious dryness in La Pampa and western Buenos Aires province. As of August 3, 86 percent of Argentinas total wheat area was planted, compared to 88 percent this time last year as reported by Argentinas Secretaría de Agricultura. While planting is 82 percent complete in Buenos Aires province, a significant number of hectares still need to be planted in some of the provinces important wheat producing delegations, namely, Salliqueló, Tres Arroyos, and Piqué, where critical dryness has been experienced. Planting has also been delayed in La Pampa, where only 21 percent of planting intentions have been fulfilled as of August 3, as compared to 44 percent this time last year. Last weeks precipitation in southern Buenos Aires and La Pampa provinces helped planting progress, but more rain is needed to maintain the current yield forecast. (Source PECAD, Nicole Wagner, 202-720-0882)

Jun 9 2006 | Argentina Soybeans Forecast To Increase Due To Higher Profitability
Argentina's 2006/07 soybean production is forecast at 41.3 million tons, up 2 percent from last year, which is largely due to an increase in area. The USDA forecasts Argentina's area at 15.4 million hectares, which is 3 percent above last year's record yield of 15.0 million. Argentina's area has been steadily rising since the 1980's, and there is evidence that this trend will continue based on soybean profitability, agronomic practices, and seed technology. Soybeans remain the most profitable crop for grain and oilseed farmers across Argentina. Additionally, biotechnology has resulted in increasingly shorter cycle soybeans, which have allowed double-cropping in areas previously planted with one crop per growing season. Further supporting the increase of soybean area, no-tillage practices have allowed areas to be cropped which were previously unsuitable for agriculture, such as in the expansion areas of the north and west. While area and production have increased, USDA forecasts Argentina's soybean yield at 2.7 tons per hectare, which is unchanged from 2005/06 and 2004/05 soybean yields. (For more information, contact Nicole Wagner at 202-720-0882.)

Jun 9 2006 | Argentina Wheat Area Forecast Lower Due To Dryness And Lower Domestic Price
Argentina's wheat production for 2006/07 is forecast at 14.3 million tons, down 8 percent from last month, but up 14 percent from last year. Harvested wheat area for 2006/07 is forecast at 5.60 million hectares, down 5 percent from last month, but up 17 percent from last year. Yield is forecast at 2.55 tons per hectare, which is above the five-year average of 2.43 tons, but lower than last year's yield of 2.60 tons. As of June 2, 13 percent of the forecast wheat area was planted, as reported by the Bolsa de Cereales Buenos Aires. Nearly half of Cordoba's wheat area has been planted, and seeding is nearly finished in the Northern provinces; however, planting is behind in Buenos Aires, the major producing province. One of the main reasons for the decrease in harvested area from last month is concern over a potential wheat export ban imposed by the government of Argentina. While international wheat prices are high, prices have decreased domestically causing the Bolsa de Cereales Buenos Aires to lower its 2006/07 wheat area forecast from last month. In addition to concern over wheat exports, Argentina's wheat area forecast has been lowered due to lack of precipitation. Dryness has hampered planting progress in Buenos Aires and it was reported that approximately half of Argentina's wheat area is experiencing moisture stress. Despite a dry start to the wheat growing season, Argentina's yield forecast remains unchanged from last month given the small percent of the crop that is currently planted. (For more information, contact Nicole Wagner at 202-720-0882).

Apr 10 2006 | Argentina Corn Area and Production Decreased Due to Adverse Weather
Argentina's corn production for 2005/06 is forecast at 14.0 million tons, down 10 percent from last month, and down 32 percent from last year. Harvested corn area for 2005/06 is forecast at 2.2 million hectares, down 4 percent from last month and down 21 percent from last year. Yield is forecast at 6.36 tons per hectare, which is down 6 percent from last month and down 14 percent from last year. As of March 30, harvest progress was 19 percent complete, compared to 38 percent complete at this time last year. Entre Ríos and Santa Fe provinces, which are 93 and 43 percent complete, lead harvest progress. Buenos Aires and C?rdoba provinces, which account for the majority of corn area, are only 14 and 7 percent complete, respectively. Harvested area has been reduced this month based on the Argentine Ministry of Agriculture's planted area and non-harvestable area estimates for each delegation. Additionally, FAS crop travel revealed that more planted area was being cut for silage due to lower than expected yields. Yield has decreased this month based on results of FAS crop travel and low early harvest results. Yields are lower than last year because of unfavorable weather in many parts of Argentina. While corn in parts of Buenos Aires was damaged because of December frosts, corn in Santa Fe, C?rdoba, and northern Buenos Aires provinces was damaged due to severe dryness and heat during December and January. (For more information, contact Nicole Wagner at 202-720-0882.)

Apr 10 2006 | Paraguay Soybean Output Reduced Due to Excessive Heat And Dryness in Januar
Paraguay's 2005/06 soybean crop is estimated at 4.0 million tons, down 0.5 million from last month and basically unchanged from last year's drought-affected crop. Harvested area is unchanged at 2.0 million hectares, and identical to last year. News reports from Paraguay indicated that early-maturing soybean varieties were suffering extensive yield losses in January owing to a month of dry weather and excessively hot temperatures. Daytime high temperatures were reported in the 40-degree Celsius range, at a time when early soy varieties would have been in reproductive growth phases. Paraguayan authorities reported that an unusually large area of the national crop was sown to early varieties this year in hopes of escaping a second year of late-season drought. Unfortunately, the hot-dry weather came early instead. Satellite image-derived vegetative indices clearly illustrated the intensification of crop stress during December and January, validating in-country harvest reports that yields had been seriously affected in the major eastern growing areas of Paraguay. Fortunately, the country began receiving cooler and wetter weather in late January, enabling later maturing soy crops to recover to near-normal levels. (For more information, contact Michael Shean at 202-720-7366.)

Mar 10 2006 | Foreign Corn: Smaller Crops for Major Competitors in 2005/06
Foreign corn production in 2005/06 is estimated at 401.6 million tons, similar to last month, but down by 7.5 million from last year due to reduced production from major countries/regions such as European Union (EU), Argentina, and South Africa. For 2005/06, EU output decreased by 5.3 million tons to a total of 48.2 million, due to lower area and drought-reduced yields in France--largest producer in the EU. In Argentina and South Africa, below-average crops of 15.5 million tons and 7.5 million are expected this year, 5 million and 4 million lower than last year's record crops, respectively. The drop in Argentina's crop is due to lower area and unfavorable growing conditions, while in South Africa it is due entirely to lower area. The decrease in area in South Africa is attributable to lower prices, higher stocks, and reduced credit from banks and cooperatives. For this month, increases for India and Romania were almost completely offset by smaller crops in Brazil and Mexico. Larger harvested area in India and higher yields due to better weather in both India and Romania have been major contributors to the increase in production. (For more information, contact Michelle Greenberg at 202-720-7339.)

Feb 8 2006 | South American Soybeans: Yields Maintained in Argentina and Brazil, Decreas
Dryness coupled with extreme heat in early January threatened yield potential in much of the soybean-growing regions of South America. Since the soybean crop was in the vegetative stage in early January and above average precipitation was received in Argentina and Brazil immediately following the heat wave, little yield potential was lost as crop development benefited from the significant moisture. Paraguay's crop suffered from continued dryness that damaged the already stressed soybean crop. Therefore, USDA has reduced its estimate of soybean production in Paraguay to 4.5 million tons, down from last month's estimate of 4.8 million. Harvested area in Paraguay is unchanged from last month's estimate of 2.0 million hectares.

Feb 8 2006 | Argentina Corn: Heat and Dryness Cause Significant Damage to Crop
Argentina's corn production for 2005/06 is forecast at 15.5 million tons, down 8 percent from last month and down 21 percent from last year. Harvested area for 2005/06 is forecast at 2.30 million hectares, down 4 percent from last month and down 15 percent from last year. Yield is forecast at 6.74 tons per hectare, which is down 4 percent from last month and down 7 percent from last year. As of January 26, planting was 98 percent complete, compared to 99 percent complete at this time last year. Some area is left to be planted in Santiago del Estero; Avellanda, Santa Fe; and Río Cuarto, C?rdoba. There are two main reasons for the overall decrease in area from last year. First, many producers planted less area to corn to reflect last year's on-farm oversupply. Secondly, dryness and severe heat during the tasseling stage in early January drastically affected crop development, thus increasing forecast harvest losses. While Argentina's corn yields have generally increased since the early 1990's, the particularly inopportune weather during the vulnerable stage of tasseling this year has significantly damaged the corn crop and reduced yield potential. (For more information, contact Nicole Wagner at 202-720-0882.)

Jan 1 2006 | Argentina Corn: Crop Suffering From Heat and Dryness
Argentina's corn production for 2005/06 is forecast at 16.8 million tons, down 3 percent from last month and down 14 percent from last year. Harvested corn area for 2005/06 is forecast at 2.4 million hectares, unchanged from last month, but down 11 percent from last year. Yield is forecast at 7.00 tons per hectare, which is above the 5-year average of 6.31 tons, but down 3 percent from last month. As of January 5, planting was 93 percent complete, compared to 96 percent at this time last year. Areas still to be planted are in La Pampa, San Luis, Santa Fe, and the northern provinces. The main reason for an overall decrease in area from last year is a general shift from grains to more profitable oilseeds. While the corn crop was reported in good condition in C?rdoba, Entre Ríos, and Santa Fe during November, dryness throughout December has caused potential yield to decrease. Severely hot temperatures in early January in the main corn-producing regions of C?rdoba, Santa Fe, and northern Buenos Aires during the critical period of flowering have further decreased estimated yields. Timely rains and a return to seasonal temperatures are necessary to prevent a further reduction in yield. (For more information, contact Nicole Wagner at 202-720-0882.)

Nov 1 2005 | Argentina: Wheat Production Decreased From Last Year Due to a Shift to Oils
Argentina's wheat production for 2005/06 is forecast at 12.1 million tons, up 4 percent from last month, but down 24 percent from last year. Harvested wheat area for 2005/06 is forecast at 4.90 million hectares, unchanged from last month, but down 20 percent from last year. Yield is forecast at 2.47 tons per hectare, which is above the 5-year average of 2.39 tons per hectare. As of November 5, 6.2 percent of the wheat area was harvested, as reported by the Bolsa de Cereales in Buenos Aires. Harvest has progressed in the northern provinces and has extended to Cordoba and Sante Fe. One of the main reasons for an overall decrease in harvested area from last year is a general shift from intended wheat hectares to first-crop soybeans and sunflower. The profitability of soybeans and sunflowers has increased in comparison to grains. Yields have suffered in parts of Chaco, Cordoba, Sante Fe, and La Pampa, due to dryness as well as problems of yellow spot, rust, and poor crop development that were reported throughout the growing season. Rains in October improved soil moisture conditions in Buenos Aires and Sante Fe provinces. Thus, average-to-above-average yields are forecast in the southern major wheat regions, where Tres Arroyos and Tandil together account for 34 percent of the wheat production. (For more information, contact Nicole Wagner at 202-720-0882.)

Nov 1 2005 | Argentina: Corn Area Down From Last Month
Argentina's corn production for 2005/06 is forecast at 17.30 million tons, down 4 percent from last month and down 11 percent from last year. Harvested corn area for 2005/06 is forecast at 2.40 million hectares, down 4 percent from last month and down 11 percent from last year. Yield is forecast at 7.21 tons per hectare, which is above the 5-year average of 6.31 tons per hectare, but unchanged from last year. One of the main reasons for an overall decrease in area from last year is a general shift from grains to more profitable oilseeds. Continued dryness may cause a further shift from corn. As of November 3, planting progress was 62 percent complete, compared to 70 percent for the same period last year. Planting advanced rapidly in mid-October, but has slowed in some areas due to dryness. Despite dryness in the northern provinces, and in some areas of La Pampa and Buenos Aires provinces, newly emerged corn is reported in good condition in Cordoba, Entre Rios, and Sante Fe, where rain was received last week. Cordoba, Entre Rios, and Sante Fe account for approximately 34 percent, 15 percent, and 8 percent of corn production, respectively. The most advanced stage of development in these areas range from the 3 to 8-leaf stage. Timely rains are needed in parts of Buenos Aires, La Pampa, and the northern provinces to maintain the current yield forecast. (For more information, contact Nicole Wagner at 202-720-0882.)

Oct 1 2005 | Argentina: Soybean Production Outlook Gets Boost from Wheat Difficulties
Argentina's soybean production for 2005/06 is forecast at 40.5 million tons, up 4 percent from last month and 4 percent from last year. Harvested soybean area for 2005/06 is forecast at 15.2 million hectares, while yield is forecast at 2.66 tons per hectare, slightly above the 5-year average, but lower than last year's large yield of 2.71 tons per hectare. The higher soybean output is due to a decline in wheat area. Upon completion of wheat plantings in mid-September, Argentina's Agricultural Secretaria reported that planted wheat area had decreased by 340,000 hectares, or 20 percent, from last year. This decrease was due to relatively favorable economics for planting oilseeds over grains, and an abandonment of intended wheat plantings in areas where planting progress was delayed due to low temperatures and dry soils. First-crop soybeans, which comprise approximately 82 percent of total soybean production, will increase in area, while second-crop soy, which follows wheat, will decline in area. Some of the abandoned wheat area will be planted to sunflowers, which are currently being planted, but dryness in Sante Fe, Chaco, and Santiago del Estero may cause an abandonment of some intended sunflower plantings, further increasing the area available to soybeans. Planting of first-crop soybeans will be in November and December, with second-crop soybeans planted in December and January.

Sep 1 2005 | Argentina
Wheat

Sep 1 2005 | Argentina: Wheat Forecast Revised Downward
Argentina's wheat production for 2005/06 is forecast at 12.5 million tons, down 7 percent from last month and down 22 percent from last year. The harvested wheat area for 2005/06 is forecast at 5.10 million hectares, down 7 percent from last month and down 16 percent from last year. The profitability of soybean and sunflowerseed has increased over grains, which combined with dry weather in major and minor wheat growing regions, has likely shifted some intended wheat hectares to first-crop soybeans and sunflower. While first-crop soybean area increases will likely be realized during the November through December planting period, second-crop soybean area will likely be reduced since the second crop follows wheat in the typical rotation. As of Sept. 3, 2005, wheat planting was 99.7 percent complete, slower than last year and the 5- year average. Dryness in northern La Pampa, southwestern Corboba, and southern Buenos Aires has delayed planting but the only unplanted area remains in southeastern Buenos Aires province. Compared to last year, large area reductions have been realized in north-central and southwestern Cordoba, Entre Rios, La Pampa, and southeastern Buenos Aires. Planting will likely resume in southern Buenos Aires with favorable weather. Dryness has worsened wheat quality in southwest Chaco, south-central Cordoba, north-central Santa Fe, and northern La Pampa, where problems of yellow spot, small plants, little tillering, and unevenness have been reported. Early sown wheat (beginning of June) in southern Buenos Aires is reported to be in excellent tillering condition. Early seeded wheat, as well as the later plantings (end of July and late August), have benefited from recent rains. Later seeded wheat is in the germination to early tillering stages. Maintaining the above-average (i.e., 5-year and 10- year averages) forecast yield of 2.45 tons per hectare will require continued moisture and a return to normal temperatures following last weeks dry and cold weather in many areas of Argentinas interior. (For more information, contact Nicole Wagner at 202-720-0882.)

Aug 1 2005 | Argentina: Drought Reduces Wheat Production for 2005/06
Argentina's 2005/06 wheat production is forecast at 13.5 million tons, down 10 percent from last month and 16 percent from last season. Harvested area is forecast at 5.5 million hectares, down 8 percent from last month and 10 percent from last season. Yield is forecast at 2.45 tons per hectare, slightly above the 5-year average. Wheat planting reached 86 percent complete by August 5, 2005, slower than last year and the 5-year average. Wheat area is expected to decrease by 10 percent compared to last year due to lower expected returns and dryness in major growing areas. In minor growing areas of northern and central Cordoba Province and northern Buenos Aires Province, drought conditions have prevented planting of wheat. In major growing areas of southern Buenos Aires Province, persistent dryness has delayed planting. Area not planted to wheat is likely to be planted to sunflower. Sunflower planting begins in October. Wheat in Santa Fe and Entre Rios Provinces is tillering and high yields are expected. The rainfall has been beneficial. (For more information, contact Robert Tetrault at 202-690-0130.)

Dec 1 1997 | ARGENTINA: WHEAT CROP RAISED DUE TO GOOD WEATHER
Argentina's 1997/98 wheat production estimate is raised to 13.2 million tons, up 0.5 million from last month, but down 2.7 million or 17 percent from last year's record level. Yield is forecast above average because of generally favorable weather, especially in southern Buenos Aires Province, where it has been cool and wet. Satellite imagery analysis by the Production Estimates and Crop Assessment Division of FAS/USDA confirmed higher-than-expected vegetation response in the main wheat-producing area of southern Buenos Aires Province. Nationally, harvested area is forecast at 5.8 million hectares, down 1.3 million or 18 percent from last year. Lower international prices than last year and dryness at planting in key growing areas were factors in the reduced wheat area. Harvesting activity has begun. Recent field travel by the USDA's Office of the Agricultural Counselor through the main grain and oilseed production regions confirmed the generally good status of this year's wheat. Late rains in central Argentina stabilized yield prospects in the regions that were below-normal, replenishing soil moisture. Southern Santa Fe and Cordoba Provinces had better growing conditions than the central and northern parts of their respective provinces. In La Pampa, crop conditions are favorable, but some disease problems have been reported due to excessive moisture.

Feb 1 1998 | ARGENTINA: CORN CROP RAISED DUE TO GOOD WEATHER
Argentina's 1997/98 corn production estimate was raised to 15.0 million tons, up 2.0 million from the December estimate, but down 3 percent from last year's record crop. The month-to-month increase resulted mostly from reports of higher corn area and increased yield potential. Yield is forecast at a record 4.69 tons per hectare due to beneficial weather in central Argentina. Satellite imagery analysis by the Production Estimates and Crop Assessment Division of USDA/FAS indicates yield potential to be as least as high as last year's record yield of 4.56 tons per hectare. A comparison of late December vegetation indices from 1997 and 1996 indicates the main corn-growing areas of northern Buenos Aires Province are very similar to last year and the marginal corn-growing areas--southern Buenos Aires, Santa Fe, and Cordoba Provinces--are doing better than last year.

Feb 1 1998 | ARGENTINA: CORN AND SOYBEAN CROP RAISED DUE TO GOOD WEATHER
Argentina's 1997/98 corn production estimate was raised to a record 16.5 million tons, up 1.5 million tons from January or 10 percent, and up 6 percent from last year. Argentina's 1997/98 soybean production estimate was raised to a record 16.0 million tons, up 1.5 million from January or 10 percent, and up 43 percent from last year's drought-reduced crop. The month-to-month increases resulted mostly from reports of higher corn and soybean area and increased yield potential. January has continued cooler and wetter than normal, benefitting corn in the grain fill stage and soybeans in the vegetative to flowering stage. Corn yield is forecast at a record 5.0 tons per hectare due to beneficial weather in central Argentina. Soybean yield is forecast at 2.35 tons per hectare. Satellite imagery analysis by the Production Estimates and Crop Assessment Division of USDA/FAS indicates higher yield potential. A comparison of mid-January vegetation indices from 1998 and 1997 indicates summer vegetation conditions in northern Buenos Aires Province are very similar to last year and the conditions in Santa Fe, and Cordoba Provinces are doing better than last year. The majority of soybeans, approximately 71 percent, are grown in Santa Fe and Cordoba Provinces.

Apr 1 1998 | ARGENTINA: RAINS REDUCE OILSEED YIELDS AS HARVEST NEARS
Argentina sunflowerseed production is estimated lower at 5.2 million tons, down 0.3 million or 5 percent from last month, and equaling the output of last year. Harvested area is forecast at 3.1 million hectares, up 7 percent from last year. The production forecast for the sunflowerseed crop has been reduced over the past three months, from a high of 6.0 million tons, due to excessive rainfall. Heavy rains and wind in Santa Fe, southern Cordoba, and northern Buenos Aires damaged the mature crop during the harvest. As of April 6, the crop was 71 percent harvested and reported yields have been disappointing. The crop is characterized by immature light flowers, poorly-filled seeds, and the presence of various diseases. Much of what remains to be harvested is in the main production area in southern Buenos Aires and La Pampa which was spared some of the heaviest rains that caused problems to the north. Yields in this region will determine the final overall size of the crop. Cottonseed production for 1997/98 is estimated at 700,000 tons, down 100,000 or a reduction of 13 percent from last month, but up 25 percent from last year. The primary cotton-producing area in Chaco and Northern Santa Fe has been plagued with heavy late-season rains. This has resulted in vast flooding, and an excess of soil moisture and humidity in the lower canopy. According to reports, this has resulted in weak plants with few bolls, with bolls being small and often rotten, especially on the lower parts of plants. Some sources estimate that over 100,000 hectares in the hardest hit areas may be abandoned due to low yields. A combination of late plantings, slow development, and water-saturated fields has caused harvest to lag well behind normal. Assuming normal weather, harvest should be in full swing by mid-May. Peanut production in Argentina is forecast at a record 750,000 tons, up 150,000 or 25 percent from last month, and up 450,000 or 150 percent from last year. The dramatic increase is largely due to a upward revision in area from 350,000 hectares to 410,000, but also reflects a higher yield. Peanuts appear not to have been damaged by rain as have sunflowers and cotton further to the north.

Apr 1 1998 | ARGENTINA: CORN OUTPUT SOARS ON INCREASED INPUTS AND IDEAL WEATHER
Corn production is forecast at a record 18.5 million tons, up 2.0 million or 12 percent from last month, and up 3.0 million or 19 percent from the previous record harvested last year. Harvested area is forecast at 3.4 million hectares, the same as last year. As of April 6, the corn was 21 percent harvested, very near the five-year average. Harvest progress is most advanced in the Entre Rios and Santa Fe Provinces. Quality is reported to be very good. Yield is forecast to eclipse last year's record. Factors which have contributed to the large increase include improved hybrids, increased fertilizer use, better overall farming practices, and near-ideal weather during the growing season. Reportedly, a significant portion of seeds planted this year were of a new hybrid, described as a semi-dent corn which, according to some sources, has a higher yield potential than hybrids previously grown. While some analysts believe that the crop could be larger than the current estimates, it should be noted that some of the remaining areas in southern Buenos Aires have been dryer and may yield lower than average.

May 1 1998 | ARGENTINA: RAINS AND FLOODS REDUCE COTTON, RICE, AND SUNFLOWERSEED PRODUCTION
Excessive rains and floods in Argentina have caused heavy losses in the cotton crop. Cotton production for 1997/98 is estimated lower this month at 1.4 million bales, down 0.5 million or 26 percent from last month and 6 percent from last year's output of 1.5 million. The dramatic reduction from a forecast high of 2.1 million bales in March, has resulted from excessive rainfall and flooding in the Northeast provinces of Chaco, Formosa Santa Fe, and Corrientes. Cotton losses resulted from a host of moisture related insect and disease problems in marginally-affected areas, while cotton in the hardest hit areas was submerged and much can not be harvested. Harvest area for 1997/98 was cut from 1.0 million hectares to 0.8 million. Sunflower area, while not flooded like cotton, has suffered from a prolonged period of late-season, excess rainfall which has reduced yields and frustrated harvest efforts. Production for 1997/98 is estimated lower this month at 5.0 million tons, down 0.2 million or 4 percent from last month and down 0.4 million from last year. Area is unchanged this month at 3.1 million hectares. As a result of the continuing rains, the production forecast for the sunflowerseed crop has been reduced over each of the past four months, from a January forecast of 6.0 million tons. The crop is characterized by immature light-weight flowers, poorly-filled seeds, and the presence of various diseases. Rice is estimated lower this month at 0.585 million tons (milled), down 0.185 million or 24 percent from last month, and down 0.195 million from last year's record. Area was reduced to 0.2 million hectares, down from 0.225 million last month. Like cotton, rice has suffered from recent floods in Corrientes and neighboring provinces. Yield and quality had already suffered due to cool, moist conditions earlier in the season. The recent rains have interrupted the harvest and many growers are unable to move the rice to commercial facilities for drying due to flood-related transportation problems.

Jun 1 1998 | ARGENTINA: SOYBEAN OUTPUT UP ON GOOD RAINS AND INCREASED INPUTS
Argentina's 1997/98 soybean production is estimated higher this month at a record 17.0 million tons, up 1.0 million or 6 percent from last month, and up 52 percent from last year. Harvested area is forecast at a record 6.8 million hectares, up 10 percent from last year. The year-to-year increase in total soybean area is due to lower wheat area and higher expected returns for soybeans. Late harvesting of the wheat, however, delayed the planting of second-crop soybeans which are planted after winter wheat harvesting. As a result, second-crop soybeans are estimated to make up only about 30 percent of total soybean area, compared with 40 to 45 percent last year. Yield is forecast at a record 2.50 tons per hectare due to excellent weather and the higher proportion of single-crop soybeans, which have a higher yield potential than second-crop soybeans. Also, increased use of agricultural inputs and better management practices have boosted yield. This year's abundant rainfall is similar to that of 1990/91 when the previous record yield was achieved. Specifically, the main soybean-growing areas of Santa Fe and Cordoba Provinces appear to have done much better than last year, while northern Buenos Aires Province appears similar to last year. As of June 5, harvest was 86 percent complete compared with 97 percent a year ago, but dry weather since then should have allowed for good progress in harvesting the remaining crop.

Aug 1 1998 | ARGENTINA: RECORD SUNFLOWERSEED OUTPUT FORECAST FOR 1998/99
Sunflowerseed production in Argentina for 1998/99 is forecast at a record 6.25 million tons, up 1 million or 19 percent from last year's output. Area is forecast at a record 3.5 million hectares, up 13 percent from last season. Area is projected to increase because of anticipated higher returns on sunflowerseed relative to other crops and reduced winter wheat area which will allow for increased area available for the main summer crops. It has been suggested by some that drier weather associated with La Nina might favor sunflowerseed over other crops and this may influence some growers' planting decisions. In Argentina, sunflowers are planted from September through December and harvested from February through May. The 1997/98 year was marked by high early-season expectations due to favorable weather, followed by a disappointing finish due to excessive rain. Crop forecasts were dropped from record production levels on record area to much lower levels based on a reduction of area due to abandonment and below-average yields due to disease and lodging.

Sep 1 1998 | ARGENTINA: OILSEEDS ESTIMATED HIGHER
Soybean production for 1998/99 has been increased from 15.0 to 15.5 million tons, an increase of 3 percent from last month, but still a decrease of 3.0 million or 16 percent from last year. Area is increased from 6.5 to 6.8 million hectares, in increase of 5 percent over last month, and equaling last year's area. The soybean area increase corresponds to a decrease in corn area based on the most recent information on planting intentions. Planting decisions are not finalized at this time as planting of soybeans does not begin until November and will continue through January. The reduction in production from last year's record level is based on an expected return to a near-normal yield following last year's record yield. Sunflowerseed production was increased from 6.3 to a record 6.7 million tons, up 0.45 million or 7 percent from last month, and up 28 percent from last year's crop which suffered late-season losses due to excess rainfall. Area is increased from 3.5 to 3.8 million hectares, an increase of 0.25 million hectares or 7 percent from last month, and up 21 percent from last year. The increase is due to expectations of higher returns for sunflowerseed relative to other summer crop alternatives and to a reduction in the area of winter wheat which often rotates with sunflowerseed. Sunflowers are planted September through December and harvested February through June.

Sep 1 1998 | ARGENTINA: CORN AREA LOWER
Projected corn production for 1998/99 has been decreased from 18.0 to 16.5 million tons, a decrease of 8 percent from last month, and a decrease of 3.1 million or 16 percent from last year's record crop. Area is decreased from 3.6 to 3.3 million hectares, a decrease of 8 percent from last month, and little changed from last year. The corn area decrease corresponds to an increase in soybean area and reflects the most recent information on planting intentions. Prices for both commodities are presently very low and planting intentions are not yet finalized. The reduction in production from last year's record level is based on a yield estimate indicative of an upward multi-year trend, but lower than last year's record yield, which was achieved under near-ideal conditions. Corn planting begins in October and runs through December with harvest beginning in March and ending in June.

Oct 1 1998 | ARGENTINA: SOYBEAN PRODUCTION ESTIMATED HIGHER
Soybean production for 1998/99 is forecast at 16.5 million, an increase of 6 percent from last month, but still a decrease of 2.2 million or 12 percent from last year's record crop. Area is increased from 6.8 million hectares to a record 7.1 million, an increase of 4 percent over last month, and surpassing last year's area of 7.0 million. The soybean area increase corresponds to a decrease in corn area, as farmers are anticipating higher returns for oilseeds such as soybeans and sunflowerseed. A great deal of uncertainty concerning the area of soybeans and alternative crops still exists as the summer planting season is just beginning. Yield is projected at an above-average 2.32 tons per hectare following last year's record of 2.67, achieved under near-ideal conditions. Recent advances in farming practices and the use of genetically-engineered seed have increased yield potential, however, anticipated lower returns because of lower world prices may discourage heavy use of inputs in the current year. Planting of soybeans begins in November and will continue through January. Harvest is from April through June.

Oct 1 1998 | ARGENTINA: WHEAT AND CORN OUTPUT ESTIMATED LOWER
Wheat production for 1998/99 is forecast at 10.5 million tons, down 1.0 million or 9 percent from last month, and down 4.3 million or 29 percent from last year. Area is decreased 0.1 million or 2 percent from last month and 1.0 million hectares or 18 percent from last year. The monthly area decrease is due to dry weather in key growing areas which prevented seeding of some land. Area had already been set much lower than last year because of lower expected returns relative to summer crops. Widespread dryness from Santa Fe southward into Buenos Aires characterized the early portions of the growing season. Recent rains have alleviated much of the dryness in southern and eastern sections of Buenos Aires, but parts of Sante Fe remain dry. According to the U.S. agricultural counselor in Buenos Aires, good subsoil moisture has prevented any significant losses even in Santa Fe, but rain is now needed for grain fill and to recharge subsoil moisture. Yield is forecast at a near-average level following last year's record. Although improved farming practices have resulted in an upward yield trend, season-to-date weather factors and reduced use of fertilizer are expected to reduce overall yield. In Argentina, wheat is planted from May through August and harvested from November through January. Corn output for 1998/99 is estimated at 15.0 million tons, down 1.5 million or 9 percent from last month, and down 4.3 million or 22 percent from last year's record. Area is forecast to decrease 0.3 million or 9 percent from last month. Planting has commenced in the north, and intentions may not be finalized at this time. The choice will hinge on farmers' perception of the profitability of corn versus soybeans and other alternative crops, as well as soil moisture and rain patterns at planting. Soybeans have a later planting window than corn, and sunflowerseed is generally regarded as being more drought-tolerant. The area decrease for corn is concurrent with an increase in soybean area. Yield is based on a trend line analysis over previous years. Recent dramatic increases in yield have resulted from improved hybrids, increased fertilizer use, better overall farming practices, and, in the case of last year, near-ideal growing conditions. It is expected that the use of a new higher-yielding hybrid, described as a "semi-dent" corn, will increase for 1998/99, thereby increasing yield potential. It remains to be seen, however, whether the prospect of low

Dec 1 1998 | ARGENTINA: SOYBEAN PRODUCTION ESTIMATED HIGHER
Argentina's 1998/99 soybean production is estimated at 17.0 million tons, up 0.5 million or 3 percent from last month, but down by about 10 percent from last year's record crop. The harvested area is currently estimated at 7.3 million hectares, up 0.2 million hectares or 3 percent from last month. The increase in area is due to dryness at planting which caused a shift in acreage from corn to soybeans and sunflowerseed, as well as expected higher returns. About 52 percent of the crop has been planted through the end of November and planting will continue through January.

Dec 1 1998 | ARGENTINA: GRAIN PRODUCTION REDUCED DUE TO DRYNESS
The 1998/99 wheat crop is forecasted at 10.0 million tons, down 0.5 million or 5 percent from last month, and down 4.8 million or 32 percent from last year. Harvested area is reduced 0.1 million hectares to 4.6 million this month due to continued dryness in southern Buenos Aires. The wheat crop in southern Buenos Aires province passed the flowering stage in mid-November and is now in grain fill. A combination of reduced input use due to depressed prices at planting and inclement weather conditions in southern Buenos Aires are contributing factors in reducing the wheat crop. Argentine corn production for 1998/99 is estimated at 13.5 million tons, down 1.5 million tons or 10 percent from last month, and down 5.9 million tons or 30 percent from last year's record crop due to the impact of lower prices, delayed plantings, and dry weather. Harvested area is currently estimated at 2.8 million hectares, down 0.2 million hectares or 7 percent from last month. About 73 percent of the corn crop has already been planted as of the end of November. Area is being shifted from corn to soybeans and sunflowerseed this year because of relatively better returns for those crops. Rainfall during November and early December has improved in the previously dry regions of Cordoba and Santa Fe. However, the situation in southern Buenos Aires remains critical due to continued dryness, and additional rainfall is needed for crop development. Generally, temperatures have remained normal to below normal over the region.

Jan 1 1999 | ARGENTINA: SOYBEAN PRODUCTION ESTIMATED HIGHER
Argentina's 1998/99 soybean production is estimated at 17.5 million tons, up 0.5 million or 3 percent from last month, but down 6 percent from last year's record crop. The estimated harvested area remains unchanged from last month at 7.3 million hectares with yields falling from the record 2.67 tons per hectare set in 1997/98 to 2.40 this year, the second highest yield on record. Earlier dryness combined with higher anticipated returns encouraged some farmers in the Province of Buenos Aires to shift acreage from corn to soybeans and sunflowerseed. Near-normal rainfall during December benefitted the soybean crop in the key central area including southern Cordoba, southern Santa Fe, and northern Buenos Aires. Rainfall during December improved soybean prospects somewhat in southern Buenos Aires, but more is needed to stabilize the crop.

Feb 1 1999 | ARGENTINA: SOYBEAN PRODUCTION ESTIMATED HIGHER
Argentina's 1998/99 soybean production is estimated at 18 million tons, the second highest on record, up 0.5 million or 3 percent from last month, but down 4 percent from last year's record crop. Estimated harvested area is 7.1 million hectares, down 0.2 million from the previous month due to the impact of earlier dryness. The earlier dryness in the south encouraged some farmers in the province of Buenos Aires to shift area from corn to soybeans, but not to the extent believed earlier. Near normal rainfall since late December benefitted the soybean crop in Cordoba, Santa Fe, Entre Rios, and northern Buenos Aires.

Feb 1 1999 | ARGENTINA: WHEAT PRODUCTION RECOVERS
The 1998/99 wheat crop is forecasted at 10.8 million tons, up 0.5 million or 4 percent from last month, but down 4.1 million or 27 percent from last year's bumper crop. All of the wheat crop has been harvested and the estimated area rose slightly to 4.8 million hectares. A combination of reduced input use due to depressed prices at planting and inclement weather in southern Buenos Aires are contributing factors for the reduction of the 1998/99 wheat crop from last season. Earlier dryness during November and December 1998 adversely affected the wheat crop in southern Buenos Aires Province. Near normal rainfall since late December boosted wheat yield in the central provinces of Cordoba, Santa Fe, Entre Rios, and northern Buenos Aires. While wheat in southern Buenos Aires was stressed, normal- to- below normal temperatures during the growing season in the central provinces supported crop development. Wheat yield is estimated at 2.25 tons per hectare, up 3 percent from last month, but down 13 percent from last year's record.

Mar 1 1999 | Argentina: Soybean Production Estimated Higher
Argentina's 1998/99 soybean production is estimated at 19.2 million tons, up1.2 million or 7 percent from last month, and equal to last year's record crop. The estimated harvested area is revised upward by 0.3 million hectares to 7.4 million, due to an earlier shift by farmers from corn to soybeans. Rainfall during the second half of February was deficient in the southern parts of Cordoba, Santa Fe, and Buenos Aires. Soaking rains during the first week of March benefitted single-crop soybeans, now in the pod-fill stage, as well as second-crop soybeans which are in the pod-set stage. The estimated yield of 2.59 tons per hectare, the second highest on record, is down from 2.79 tons per hectare of last year. Additionally, the 1997/98 soybean crop is revised upward from 18.7 to 19.2 million tons based on reported stocks, exports, and crush data along with the assumption of normal amounts used for other uses such as seed and residual.

Jan 1 2000 | ARGENTINA: SOYBEAN PRODUCTION RISES ON BOOSTED AREA
Argentina's 1999/2000 soybean production is estimated at 19.0 million tons, up 0.5 million from last month, but 5 percent below last year. Harvested area is revised upward from 7.8 to 8.0 million hectares based on planted area estimated at 8.2 million hectares. Compared to the previous season, planted area has increased in all the major soybean-growing provinces, most particularly in the north where soybeans, among other crops offering better returns for farmers, are replacing cotton. As of January 7, approximately 94 percent of the total area (94 percent of the single crop, 98 percent of the second crop) had been planted. Rainfall during mid- to late-December improved moisture conditions in many areas which had been dry, allowed significant progress in planting and was favorable for crop development. However, low subsoil moisture in northern Buenos Aires and Entre Rios provinces remains a concern.

Feb 1 2000 | Paraguay: Dryness Reduces Soybean Production
The 1999/2000 soybean crop is currently estimated at 2.5 million tons, down 0.5 million tons or 17 percent from last month and last year due to the ongoing drought. Harvested area is estimated at 1.1 million hectares, down 0.1 million hectares or 8 percent below last month and last year. The crop is generally planted from September to November, and harvested from mid-February to June. The major soybean areas include Itapua, Alto Parana and Canin; minor producing areas include Misiones, Concepcion and San Pedro. Cumulative rainfall for the period October to December, 1999 was between 50 to 75 percent of normal. Rainfall for January was 75 to 100 percent of normal, improving crop prospects in key soybean areas.

Feb 1 2000 | Argentina: Soybean Production Rises as Moisture Improves
Argentina's 1999/2000 soybean production is estimated at 19.5 million tons, up 0.5 million from last month, but 2 percent below last years record. Harvested area is estimated at a record 8.0 million hectares, unchanged from last month but up 3 percent from last season. Planting began in early November and was essentially complete as of February 4. After dryness caused planting delays early in the season, significant progress was made when beneficial rains fell in mid- to late-December. Additional rainfall in January has continued to improve crop development. In the eastern and northern growing areas, more moisture is needed as seasonal rainfall totals remain below normal. Driest conditions are in Entre Rios (3-4% of total production) which has received less than 50 percent of its normal rainfall for the season. In western growing areas, rainfall has been adequate to plentiful.

Mar 1 2000 | Argentina and Uruguay: Rice Crops Reduced due to Drought
Low prices and drought have led to reduced 1999/2000 rice production in Argentina and Uruguay this season. The 1999/2000 Argentine rice production is estimated at 0.6 million tons (milled basis), 44 percent below last years record crop. Harvested area is estimated at 210,000 hectares, down 27 percent from a year ago. In the principal rice growing region, the season began with very dry soils after several months without significant rain. Dry soils combined with low prices led some producers in southern Entre Rios province to plant corn or other crops instead of rice. Dry weather continued to dominate the region, although last month, monthly rainfall was close to normal. However, some areas have not received significant rain for six months and increased irrigation has been necessary to maintain moisture levels. In addition, weed control has been more difficult in fields that have not been adequately flooded. Yields are expected to be below average this season. Reduced profitability from higher fuel costs for pumping and from expected lower output prices may lead to greater abandonment of planted land. As of mid-February, the majority of the crop was flowering. Harvest typically occurs during March and April and has already begun in the northern provinces of Corrientes and Chaco. Uruguays rice growing region has experienced similar weather and growing conditions, having received between 40 to 60 percent of the normal rainfall this season. Uruguays production is estimated at 770,000 tons on a milled basis, down 14 percent from last year. Also, harvested area is estimated at 185,000 hectares, or 10 percent below last year.

Mar 1 2000 | Argentina: Soybean Production Rises As Area Increases
Argentina's 1999/2000 soybean production is estimated at a record 20 million tons, up 0.5 million from last month, and 1 percent above last year. Harvested area is estimated at a record 8.2 million hectares, up 3 percent from last month and up 6 percent from last season. Planting was completed in early February. Rainfall during the previous two months has been beneficial for crop development; however, seasonal rainfall totals remain below normal in eastern growing areas. In Entre Rios province, where 3-4 percent of the total crop is produced, the long-term dryness has resulted in less than favorable growing conditions and delayed crop development. The crop in portions of southeastern Santa Fe and northern Buenos Aires has also suffered some drought stress. On the other hand, the western part of the growing region has experienced very favorable weather and many areas are expecting above average yields. Overall, the crop condition and yield potential are very good. The majority of the crop varies in stage from flowering to pod-filling. Harvest typically begins in March and continues into July.

Apr 1 2000 | Argentina: Revisions Hike Wheat Production
Argentinas 1999/2000 wheat crop is estimated at 15.0 million tons, up 0.5 million from last month and 23 percent above last seasons revised output. Harvested area is estimated at 5.8 million hectares, and up 8 percent from last season. Yield is estimated at a near record 2.59 tons per hectare. Growing conditions were generally good. Effects of colder weather in the latter part of the season were minimal. Harvest was completed in mid-January and the weather was favorably dry. The 1998/99 crop is also revised upward this month by 0.2 million tons to 12.2 million.

Apr 1 2000 | Argentina: Expanded Area and Favorable Weather Raise Soybean Production
Argentinas 1999/2000 soybean crop is estimated at a record 21 million tons, up 5 percent from last month and 6 percent above last season. Harvested area is estimated at a record 8.35 million hectares, 2 percent above last month and last season. Planting of a record 8.55 million hectares was completed in early February. An estimated 28 percent of the total area is second-crop soybeans compared to about 25 percent last season. Dryness caused planting delays early in the season. Since then, the season has been characterized by favorable weather except in portions of the eastern growing region that experienced persistently dry conditions. Yields for the early planted crop in Entre Rios (3-4% of total production) and adjacent areas are expected to be below average. On the other hand, western growing areas are expecting higher than average yields due to very good growing conditions this season. Harvest began in mid-March, and conditions have been favorable with only slight delays. As of March 31, approximately 6 percent of the crop had been harvested with yields reported ranging from 2 to 3.5 tons per hectare.

May 1 2000 | Argentina: Corn Production Increases, Wheat Unchanged
Corn production in Argentina is forecast to increase in 2000/01 to 16.5 million tons, up 1.0 million or 6 percent from a year earlier. Area is expected to increase 3 percent to 3.2 million hectares. Dry conditions at the beginning of last season delayed planting and resulted in planted area below original intentions. Dryness also reduced yield in some growing areas. Yield for the 1999/2000 crop which is currently being harvested (53 percent as of May 4) is expected to equal the five-year average of 5.00 tons per hectare. A slightly higher yield of 5.16 tons per hectare is expected in 2000/01 assuming normal weather. The 2000/01 wheat production is forecasted to equal last seasons 15.0 million tons. Area is forecast to increase 3 percent to 6.0 million hectares. The increase of 0.2 million hectares is projected to be taken from area previously planted to oilseed crops. Reduced areas for some oilseeds are expected following a season of lower returns.

Jun 1 2000 | Argentina: Corn Production Revised Higher
Argentinas 1999/2000 corn crop is estimated to reach 16 million tons, up 0.5 million tons or 3 percent from last months estimate. Area is unchanged at 3.1 million hectares. The crop is currently being harvested. Yields reported thus far have been very good, ranging from 6.0 - 6.3 MT/ha in the provinces of Santa Fe, Cordoba and Buenos Aires. Heavy rains during the end of April and in mid-May slowed harvest progress. Entre Rios and Santa Fe were the provinces most affected by wet conditions that halted harvesting but did not impact yield significantly. The harvest pace has rebounded in recent weeks of dry weather, although it continues to lag behind last years pace. As of June 2, approximately 70 percent of the crop had been harvested compared to 80 percent at the same time last year. Harvest is generally complete by August.

Jul 1 2000 | Argentina: Wheat Production Higher on Increased Area and Normal Weather
Wheat production in Argentina for 2000/01 is forecast at 15.5 million tons, up 0.5 million tons or 3 percent from last month and last years production. Area is forecast at 6.1 million hectares, up 0.1 million from last month and 0.2 million or 3 percent from last year. The Argentine Government recently increased its forecast of planting intentions to 6.26 million hectares, 3 percent above last years planted area. Yield is forecast at 2.54 MT/ha, equivalent to last year. The beginning of the season has been wetter than normal except in southern Buenos Aires where rainfall has been close to normal. Average temperatures have been normal to slightly above normal throughout the wheat-growing region. Surface soil moisture for germination and establishment is adequate throughout the wheat region. Excessive moisture in parts of La Pampa and northwestern and eastern Buenos Aires has caused some planting delays. A July 7 government report indicated 57.5 percent of the area has been planted, lagging behind last seasons 67 percent and behind the average of 61 percent planted by this time. Planting is generally completed in August.

Jul 1 2000 | Argentina: Soybean Production Up While Sunflowerseed Declines
Argentinas 2000/01 soybean production is forecast to increase to a new record of 21.5 million tons, up 0.8 million tons or 4 percent from last season. After another successful season, the upward trend in soybean production is expected to continue with rising area driving production higher. A record area of 8.8 million hectares is forecast which is 3 percent higher than last season. Additional area is expected to be taken from sunflowerseed and possibly new areas brought under cultivation. Also, an increase in second-crop soybeans will likely accompany the increased wheat area this season. The 1999/00 soybean production estimate was revised this month to 20.7 million tons, down 0.3 million ton or 1 percent reduction from last month, to account for losses due to heavy rainfall during harvest in April and May. The excess moisture reduced yields and quality in the affected areas of southern Santa Fe, northern Buenos Aires and Entre Rios. Harvest of the 1999/00 crop is essentially complete according to a July 7 government report. Sunflowerseed production is forecast to decrease in 2000/01 to 5.5 million tons, down 0.7 million or 11 percent from last season. Area is forecast at 3.1 million hectares, down 13 percent from last season. At this time, a year-to-year decrease in area is expected because of declining prices on the local market. However, the market situation when planting begins (August-September) will be the determining factor. Some production is expected to move west and north into drier areas leaving traditional sunflowerseed-production areas available for more profitable soybeans and wheat. The 1999/2000 crop is revised to 6.2 million tons, down 0.2 million tons or 3 percent from last month.

Oct 1 2000 | Argentina: Poor Outlook for Sunflowerseed Reduces Area
Argentinas 2000/01 sunflowerseed production is estimated at 4.8 million tons, down 1.3 million tons or 21 percent from last year. Harvested area is estimated at 2.7 million hectares, down 0.8 million hectares or 22 percent from last season, and the lowest in seven years. A weak vegetable oil market and reduced demand for sunflowerseed products have reduced incentives to produce this crop. Area is expected to be shifted to soybean with some area already lost to wheat. The Argentine government is estimating a 22 to 30 percent decline in planted area from last year. On October 6, an initial planting intention estimate of 2.7 million was reported, almost 0.9 million hectares below last year with a reduction of over 0.5 million hectares in Buenos Aires (the main sunseed-growing province) alone. Approximately 11 percent of the crop has been planted since planting began in the northern part of the country at the end of August. There have been some delays in planting because of insufficient soil moisture in the western and northern growing areas. Provinces in the far north remain very dry, although rainfall in early October boosted soil moisture in many of the dry areas.

Oct 1 2000 | Argentina: Favorable Soybean Prices Divert Area Away from Corn and Sunflower
With the soybean-corn price ratio favoring soybeans in recent months, corn area is expected to decline, and soybean area will rise to record levels in 2000/01. Additionally, reduced demand for sunflowerseed has made soybeans the favored crop this season. Soybean production is forecast at a record 22.6 million tons, up 1.9 million tons or 9 percent from last year. Harvested area is also forecast at a record 9.3 million hectares, up 9 percent from last year. Planting will begin in November and continue through December. Corn production for 2000/01 is estimated at 15.5 million tons, down 1.0 million tons or 6 percent from last month and down 0.7 million tons or 4 percent from last year's crop. Harvested area is estimated at 2.9 million hectares, down 0.2 million hectares or 6.5 percent from last year. As of October 6, the corn crop is 25 percent planted, compared to 33 percent last year, with delays attributable to insufficient soil moisture in some areas. Rainfall has been below normal for the previous two months in Cordoba, La Pampa, and western Buenos Aires. However, moderate to heavy rains in the first week of October boosted soil moisture in most dry areas.

Nov 1 2000 | Argentina: Wheat Estimate Up Due to Higher Area and Favorable Weather
Wheat production is estimated at 16.5 million tons, up 1 million tons or 6 percent from last month and from last year. Area is estimated at 6.25 million hectares, up 0.15 million hectares from last month and nearly 0.2 million hectares or 3 percent above last year. Favorable local wheat prices at the time of planting drove area to the highest level in four years. Yield is estimated above average at 2.6 MT/Ha based on favorable October weather and positive reported crop conditions. Timely rainfall followed by periods of dry weather has been very beneficial. Rainfall totals for the month were at normal to above normal levels in much of the wheat-growing region, with some excess moisture reported in a few areas in north and northwest Buenos Aires and in Entre Rios. The only dry area is northern Santa Fe which has missed most of the rains this season but grows less than 1 percent of the wheat crop. In Buenos Aires, the crop is tillering to heading. In the Cordoba and Santa Fe, the crop is in heading to grain-filling stages. Harvest has begun in the far northern minor growing-areas. Most of the wheat will be harvested in December to January. The 1999/2000 wheat production estimate was also revised this month to 15.5 million tons, up 0.4 million tons or 3 percent from last month, based on export and milling data that indicated higher production.

Dec 1 2000 | Argentina: Forecast Soybean Area Rises, Sunflower Area Lower
Argentinas 2000/01 soybean production is forecast at a record 23.5 million tons, up 2.8 million tons or 13 percent from last years record, and up 0.5 million tons from last month on higher area. Harvested area is forecast at a new record of 9.7 million hectares, up 1.1 million hectares or 13 percent from last year, and up 200,000 hectares from Novembers estimate. Sunflowerseed production is forecast at 4.4 million tons, down 1.7 million or 28 percent from last year, and down 4 percent from last month due to lower area. Harvested area is forecast at 2.4 million hectares, down 1.1 million hectares or 31 percent from last year. Relatively high prices for soybean meal and lower production costs for soybeans have encouraged farmers to shift to soybeans from sunflowers, corn and rice this year. Soybean planting began in November and continues through January, while sunflower planting is from October through December. Plantings of both crops had been delayed somewhat by excessive rains, but current planting progress is similar to last year and to average.

Jan 1 2001 | Argentina: Weak Demand for Sunflowerseed Reduces Area
Argentinas 2000/01 sunflowerseed production is estimated at 4.0 million tons, down 0.4 million tons or 9 percent from last month and down 2.1 million tons or 34 percent from last year. Harvested area is estimated at 2.2 million hectares, down 1.3 million hectares or 37 percent from last season, and the lowest in seven years. A weak oil market and reduced demand for sunflowerseed products have reduced incentives to produce this crop. Area that was planted to sunflowers last year is expected to have shifted to soybeans in central Argentina; to cotton in northern Argentina, and some area to wheat in southern Argentina. Planting began in the northern end of the country at the end of August, and is approximately 98 percent complete. There had been some planting delays because of insufficient soil moisture in the western and northern growing areas, but rapid planting progress in December has brought this years pace to normal levels. Recent dryness in La Pampa and western Buenos Aires led to decreased surface soil moisture, but subsoil moisture has remained adequate.

Jan 1 2001 | Argentina: Corn Area Forecast Down Due to More Favorable Soybean Prices
2000/01 corn production is estimated at 15.0 million tons, down 0.5 million tons or 3 percent from last month and down 1.7 million tons or 10 percent from last years crop. With the soybean-corn price ratio of recent months favoring soybeans, corn area declined in response. Harvested area is estimated at 2.8 million hectares, down 0.1 million hectares from last month and down 0.3 million hectares or 10 percent from last year. Corn is 90 percent planted, similar to last years pace. There had been some delays in planting in October (owing to insufficient soil moisture), but rapid progress in December has brought this years planting pace to normal levels. Rainfall was below normal for August and September in Cordoba, La Pampa and western Buenos Aires, but moderate to heavy rains in October and November boosted soil moisture in most dry areas. Recent dryness in La Pampa and western Buenos Aires had led to decreased surface soil moisture, but subsoil moisture has remained adequate.

Feb 1 2001 | Argentina: Record Soybean Production Forecast for 2000/01
Argentinas soybean production is forecast at a record 24.0 million tons, up 2.8 million tons or 13 percent from last years record, and up 0.5 million tons from last month. Planting had reached 99 percent as of January 26, 2001, similar to last years pace. The 1999/2000 soybean crop was the previous record and is estimated at 21.2 million tons. Soybean yield for 2000/01 is estimated at 2.45 MT/ha, above the five-year average yield of 2.32 MT/ha. Concern for the second-crop establishmentapproximately 26 percent of planted area--and recent dryness in western Buenos Aires is counterbalancing good crop prospects in Santa Fe and Cordoba.

Mar 1 2001 | Argentina: Higher Soybean Yields and Production Forecast
Argentinas 2000/01 soybean production is forecast at a record 25.0 million tons, up 1.0 million or 4 percent from last month, and up 18 percent from last seasons record production of 21.2 million. Harvested area is forecast at a record 9.85 million hectares, up 0.05 million from last month and up 1.28 million or 15 percent from last season. Soybean yields are estimated at 2.54 tons per hectare, above the five-year average yield of 2.32 tons but below the record yield of 2.80 tons in 1997/98. Beneficial rains at the end of February have alleviated concerns for yield potential which arose from the hot dry conditions that predominated from February 12 to 27. Abundant soil moisture maintained single-crop soybeans through the hot dry spell. Second-crop soybeans may have suffered during a dry spell in December and early January, but early vegetative and flowering periods have had very good rainfall. March weather will be important to the second-crop soybeans; poor rainfall or early coolness would negatively affect yields. Of the total planted area, 74 percent is single cropped and 26 percent is second-crop soybeans.

Apr 1 2001 | Argentina: Corn Production Increased due to Higher Yields
Argentinas 2000/01 corn production is estimated at 16.0 million tons, up 1.0 million or 7.0 percent from last month but down 1.2 million or 7 percent from last year. Harvested area is unchanged at 2.8 million hectares from last month but down 0.3 million or 10 percent from last year. Harvested area declined compared to last year due to the soybean-corn price ratio favoring soybeans at planting time. Higher corn yield accounted for the increase in production with yield estimated at 5.71 tons per hectare, compared to 5.55 tons last year. Harvest is 21 percent complete as of March 30, slower than last years rate of 30 percent, as abundant rainfall has slowed harvest.

Apr 1 2001 | Argentina: Soybean Production Forecast Higher, but Sunflowerseed
Argentinas 2000/01 soybean production is forecast at a record 26.0 million tons, up 1.0 million or 4 percent from last month, and up 23 percent from last seasons record production of 21.2 million. A much larger soybean area than last year and good yields for both single-crop and second-crop account for the record production. Argentinas 2000/01 sunflowerseed production is estimated at 3.5 million tons, down 0.5 million or 13 percent from last month and down 43 percent from last year. A large decrease in area compared to last year accounts for the decrease in production. Soybean harvested area is forecast at a record 9.85 million hectares, unchanged from last month and up 1.28 million or 15 percent from last season. Soybean yield for 2000/01 is estimated at 2.64 tons per hectare, above the five-year average yield of 2.32 tons but below the record yield of 2.80 tons in 1997/98. Beneficial rains at the beginning and end of February have alleviated concern for the single-crop soybean yield potential. Additionally, the March precipitation improved the outlook for second-crop soybeans. Of the total planted area, 74 percent is single-crop and 26 percent is second-crop soybeans. Sunflowerseed harvested area is estimated at 2.0 million hectares, down 0.2 million or 9 percent from last month and down 43 percent from last year. Sunflower seed area decreased due to better expected profitability from soybeans and corn. Sunflower seed yield is forecast at 1.75 tons per hectare which is similar to the average yield of 1.76 tons.

Nov 1 2001 | Argentina: Sunflower Production to Decrease due to Heavy Rains
Argentine sunflower area in 2001/02 is forecast at 2.0 million hectares, down 0.1 million hectares from last month but up 6 percent from last season. Argentinas sunflower production is forecast at 3.4 million tons, down 0.3 million tons or 8 percent from last month, but up 11 percent from last seasons estimate of 3.1 million tons. Heavy rains in central Argentina delayed sunflower planting in key growing areas. More than 12 inches (300 mm) of rain has fallen on central Argentinas main growing area since September 15, resulting in localized flooding and saturated soils. Sunflower planting is 27 percent complete as of early November, the slowest rate in five years. Planting began in mid-September and is typically 50 percent complete by the end of October. By early December, planting is finished. Approximately 26 percent (0.57 million hectares) of national sunflower planted area is in the area that was most affected by the rains. This area is northwestern Buenos Aires, southern Santa Fe, southern Cordoba, and northeastern La Pampa provinces. Sunflower area is expected to decrease by 100,000 hectares as farmers shift away from sunflower to soybean.

Nov 1 2001 | Argentina: Soybean Production to Increase as Area Shifts from Corn and Sunflowerseed
Argentine soybean area in 2001/02 is forecast at a record 11.0 million hectares, up 0.3 million hectares from last month and up 7 percent from last years area of 10.3 million hectares. Soybean production is forecast at 28.0 million tons, up 1.0 million or 4 percent from last month, and up 5 percent from last seasons revised estimate of 26.7 million tons. Soybean area is expected to increase as farmers shift away from corn and sunflowerseed. Heavy rains in central Argentina have reduced planting intentions for corn and sunflowerseed by 350,000 hectares. More than 12 inches (300 mm) of rain has fallen on central Argentinas main growing area since September 15, resulting in localized flooding and saturated soils. These soils will need time to dry before planting can occur. In these conditions, soybeans have two advantages over corn and sunflowerseed: planting occurs later in the season than corn and sunflower planting, and no-till planting can occur on wetter soils. Soybean planting is 9 percent complete as of early November. Single-crop soybean planting begins in early November and is typically 50 percent complete by late November. Even before the delays caused by the heavy rains, economic conditions favored the planting of soybeans over corn. Soybeans are preferred due to higher returns and lower input costs. Input costs are financed and the high cost and limited availability of credit are of increasing concern. Rising concerns about a possible default on the national debt by the Argentine government have made credit even tighter in recent weeks.

Nov 1 2001 | Argentina: Wheat Production Declines Due to Heavy Rains
Argentinas wheat production for 2001/02 is estimated at 17.0 million tons, down 0.5 million or 3 percent from last month, but up 3 percent from last seasons crop of 16.5 million. Argentine wheat area is estimated at 6.7 million hectares, down 0.1 million from last month, but up 5 percent from last season. Heavy rains in central Argentina have damaged wheat. More than 12 inches (300 mm) of rain has fallen on central Argentinas main growing area since September 15 resulting in localized flooding and saturated soils. Approximately 15 percent of the nations wheat area is in the area that was most affected by the rains. This area is northwestern Buenos Aires, southern Santa Fe, southern Cordoba, and northeastern La Pampa provinces. The wheat harvest has begun in northern Argentina; 2 percent has been collected as of early November. The heavy rains in central Argentina fell on wheat in the heading and flowering stages. The higher-than-normal precipitation has raised concerns for increased outbreaks of fungal diseases. Wheat yields are forecast at 2.54 tons per hectare, slightly higher than average.

Dec 1 2001 | Argentina: Soybean Area to Increase as Corn Area Declines
Argentine soybean area in 2001/02 is forecast at a record 11.1 million hectares, up 0.1 million from last month and up 8 percent from last years area of 10.3 million hectares. Soybean production is forecast at 28.8 million tons, up 0.75 million or 3 percent from last month, and up 6 percent from last seasons revised estimate of 27.2 million. Soybean area is expected to increase by 0.1 million hectares as farmers shift away from corn. In October, heavy rains in central Argentina reduced planting intentions for corn and delayed planting. More than 12 inches (300 mm) of rain fell on central Argentinas main growing area since September 15, 2001, resulting in localized flooding and saturated soils. The soils in central Argentina were saturated due to the rains and needed time to dry before planting could occur. In November, the rains continued with some open days for fieldwork to progress. Soybean planting has two advantages over corn planting: planting occurs later in the season than corn planting, and no-till planting can occur on wetter soils. Soybean planting is 48 percent complete as of November 30.

Dec 1 2001 | Argentina: Corn Production to Decrease Due to Lower Area and Yield
Argentine corn production in 2001/02 is forecast at 12.5 million tons, down 1.5 million or 11 percent from last month and down 19 percent from last season. Harvested area is forecast at 2.3 million hectares, down 0.15 million from last month and down 16 percent from last season. Yield is forecast slightly above average at 5.43 tons/hectare. In October, heavy rains in central Argentina delayed corn planting in key corn-growing areas. More than 12 inches (300 mm) of rain fell on central Argentinas main growing area since September 15, resulting in localized flooding and saturated soils. In November, the rains continued with some open days for fieldwork to progress. Corn planting is estimated at 72 percent complete as of November 30, the slowest pace in the last five years according to the Argentine Ministry of Agriculture (SAGPyA). Planting began in late September and the majority of corn is planted in late October and early November, and is complete by the middle of December.

Jan 1 2002 | Argentina: Wheat Production Falls, Exports Halted Amid Currency Woes
Argentine wheat production in 2001/02 is estimated at 16.5 million tons, down 0.5 million or 3 percent from last month, but unchanged from last season. Harvested area estimate is unchanged from last month, but up 5 percent from last season. Wheat yields are forecast below average at 2.46 tons per hectare. The decline in wheat yields from last month is based on preliminary reports from northern Buenos Aires province. Approximately 15 percent of the nations wheat area was affected by heavy rainfall in the middle of the growing season. This area is northwestern Buenos Aires, southern Santa Fe, southern Cordoba, and northeastern La Pampa provinces. Wheat harvest is 74 percent complete as of January 4, 2002, slightly behind last years pace. Currency devaluations will encourage Argentine farmers to plant more area, since a devaluation improves the competitiveness of their crops on the world market. This may result in increased planted area for the 2002/03 crop. The USDA will publish the first estimate of the 2002/03 grain plantings in May 2002. Currently, the costs of production favor wheat, soybeans and sunflowers relative to corn.

Jan 1 2002 | Argentina: Corn Production Prospects Curtailed
Argentine corn production in 2001/02 is forecast at 11.5 million tons, down 1.0 million from last month or 8 percent and down 26 percent from last season. Area is forecast at 2.15 million hectares, down 0.15 million from last month and down 22 percent from last season. Yield is forecast slightly below average at 5.35 tons/hectare. Lower yields are expected due to the delayed corn planting in key corn-growing areas and dryness in Rio Cuarto. Argentina has had a strong increase in yields over the last ten years, with a ten-year trend yield of 5.87 tons/hectare. This is the first year since 1996/97 that yields are estimated below trend and below average. There are significant planting delays in northern Buenos Aires province, amounting to 10 percent of national corn planted area. This area typically has above-average yields. In October, more than 12 inches (300 mm) of rain fell on central Argentinas main growing area, resulting in localized flooding and saturated soils. In November, the rains continued with some open days for fieldwork to progress. The heavy rains delayed planting and in Pehuajo delegacion prevented planting. In western Cordoba, the Rio Cuarto delegacion has been too dry, preventing planting of the remaining area. Recent rains in Cordoba province have alleviated the topsoil dryness but it is too late to plant corn. Rio Cuarto delegacion accounts for 18 percent of the national corn planted area.

Feb 1 2002 | Argentina: Wheat Production Declines
Argentine wheat production in 2001/02 is estimated at 15.7 million tons, down 0.8 million or 5 percent from last month and down 5 percent from last season. Harvested area is estimated at 6.8 million hectares, a slight increase from last month, and up 6 percent from last season. Wheat yields are forecast below average at 2.31 tons per hectare. Lower than expected yields in the key producing areas of southern Buenos Aires Province resulted in less production. Although southern Buenos Aires Province wheat yields were higher than average, they were not high enough to offset losses in northern Buenos Aires Province. During wheat flowering, more than 12 inches (300 mm) of rain fell on central Argentinas main growing area resulting in localized flooding and saturated soils. Approximately 15 percent of the nations wheat area is in the area that was most affected by the rains. This area is northwestern Buenos Aires, southern Santa Fe, southern Cordoba, and northeastern La Pampa Provinces. Wheat yields have been reported lower than last year for this area.

Mar 1 2002 | Argentina: Corn Production Estimated Higher
Argentinas 2001/02 corn crop is currently forecast at 12.0 million tons, up 0.5 million from last month, but down 3.5 million or 23 percent from last year. Production is estimated higher as a result of an upward revision in forecast crop yields. Summer weather has been generally favorable, while early harvest results show crop yields at levels higher than previously expected. Field travel by USDA personnel during February confirmed that crop outlook had improved with national yields now forecast above average at 5.58 tons per hectare.

Apr 1 2002 | Argentina: Record Soybean Area and Production
Argentinas 2001/02 soybean production is estimated at a record 29.5 million tons, up 0.75 million or 8 percent from last month and up 6 percent from last seasons revised estimate of 27.8 million tons. Harvested area is forecast at a record 11.3 million hectares, up 0.2 million from last month and up 9 percent from last season. Yield is forecast above average at 2.61 tons per hectare. Soybean harvest has started and is 6 percent complete as of March 29, 2002, similar to last years pace. First-crop soybeans escaped damage from dryness in February, when some fields were at the end of the podfill stage. The recent March rains alleviated dryness in the main growing areas, improving the conditions for second-crop soybeans. Field travel during late February and early March indicated mixed conditions for soybean yields. First-crop soybean yields were higher than normal, and, at that time, second-crop soybeans were suffering from dryness. The dryness has been alleviated and second-crop soybean yields are expected to be near normal. The proportion of second-crop soybean planted area is estimated at 27 percent of total soybeans, compared to 26 percent in 2000/01, and 28 percent in 1999/2000.

Apr 1 2002 | Argentina: Sorghum Production Decreases due to Lower Area
Argentinas 2001/02 sorghum production is forecast at 2.3 million tons, down 0.7 million from last month and down 20 percent from last seasons revised estimate of 2.9 million tons. Harvested area is estimated at 0.53 million hectares, a decrease of 0.12 million from last month and down 14 percent from last year. Sorghum area has been decreasing in Argentina as farmers switch to soybeans. In the main growing areas of central Argentina few farmers use sorghum in crop rotation. In marginal areas of northern Santa Fe Province and western Cordoba Province, which tend to have droughts, sorghum remains a component in crop rotation.

Apr 1 2002 | Argentina: Corn Production Increases due to Higher Area and Yields
Argentinas 2001/02 corn production is forecast at 12.8 million tons, up 0.8 million from last month, or 7 percent, but down 17 percent from last seasons revised estimate of 15.4 million tons. Harvested area is forecast at 2.25 million hectares, up 100,000 hectares from last month but down 26 percent from last season. Yield is forecast above average at 5.69 tons per hectare. Corn harvest is underway and is 21 percent complete as of March 29, 2002, similar to last years pace according to the Argentine Ministry of Agriculture (SAGPyA). Harvested area increased by 100,000 hectares from last month. The Argentine Ministry of Agriculture raised their planted area estimate to 3.0 from 2.6 million hectares. Less area for silage is one of the reasons for the increase. Field travel by Ag Attaché and FAS/Washington indicates higher than average yields in northern Buenos Aires Province, southern Santa Fe Province and eastern Cordoba Province. These areas were planted on time. Abundant soil moisture and timely rains have led to higher estimated yields, and reports of yields in these areas confirm higher yield estimates. In northwestern Buenos Aires Province, corn was planted later than normal and lower yields are expected; this area was not visited. The higher-yielding areas in central Argentina are expected to offset the lower yielding areas.

May 1 2002 | Argentina: Corn Production Expected to Decline
Argentinas 2002/03 corn production is estimated at 11 million tons, down 2 million or 15 percent from the revised estimate of 13 million tons of 2001/02. Harvested area is forecast at 2 million hectares, down 0.25 million or 11 percent from last season. Yield is forecast at 5.5 tons per hectare. Corn planting for Argentinas 2002/03 crop will begin in September 2002 and is expected to be 50 percent complete by the third week in October. Corn area is expected to decrease 11 percent from last season. The high inflation combined with the 20 percent corn export tax, are expected to dampen the benefits engendered by the devaluation. As a result, total crop area is not expected to increase significantly. It is highly unlikely that significant credit will be available from the local banks or input providers and this lack of credit will result in a shift to lower cost crops (wheat, soybeans and sunflower) and away from higher cost crops (corn and peanuts). Hence, a reduction in the amount of fertilizer and chemicals applied to corn is expected as well, which would result in lower than average corn yields.

Jul 1 1999 | ARGENTINA: SOYBEAN AND SUNFLOWERSEED PRODUCTION DOWN
Argentina's 1999/2000 soybean production and sunflowerseed production are forecast to decrease from last season. Soybean production is forecast at 17.0 million tons, down 1.3 million or 7 percent from last year. Sunflowerseed production is forecast at 6.4 million tons, down 0.2 million or 3 percent from last year's record. Declining oilseed prices and large supplies will reduce the incentive to plant later this year. High production last year and competition from other nations are anticipated to weaken the oilseeds market. Argentina and Brazil's 1998/99 soybean production are estimated at near-record levels. A record 1999/2000 soybean crop is estimated for the United States, and bumper sunflowerseed crops are forecast for the United States and Russia. Global palm oil production is projected at a record level and will provide competition for sunflower and other vegetable oils. Record areas of soybeans and sunflowers had been planted last season in anticipation of higher returns for oilseeds compared to other crops. With oilseed prices down, farmers are expected to shift area back to wheat or other higher-return crops. Harvested area for sunflowerseed is forecast at 3.45 million hectares, down 0.3 million or 8 percent from the previous year. Soybean harvested area is forecast at 7.25 million hectares, down 0.25 million hectares or 3 percent from last year. It is expected that as area for single-crop soybeans is reduced in favor of wheat, area for lower-yielding second-crop soybeans will be expanded. Soybean yield may be affected by a reduced level of inputs as credit becomes more difficult to obtain due to lower oilseed price expectations.

Aug 1 1999 | ARGENTINA: HIGHER AREA RAISES WHEAT OUTPUT
Argentinas 1999/2000 wheat production is estimated at 12.7 million tons, up 0.4 million from last month and up 15 percent from last seasons revised output. Harvested area is estimated at 5.5 million hectares, up 0.3 million from last month and up 12 percent from last year. As of late-August, planting was virtually complete, according to the Ministry of Agriculture. The weather and planting conditions have been generally favorable to date; however, light frost in late August across central and southern Buenos Aires and La Pampa burnt back very early vegetative growth. Yield is unchanged this month at 2.34 tons per hectare and is slightly below the 1998/99 crop as less fertilizer is being used which will restrict potential yield.

Sep 1 1999 | ARGENTINA: HIGHER AREA RAISES WHEAT OUTPUT
Argentinas 1999/2000 wheat production is estimated at 12.7 million tons, up 0.4 million from last month and up 15 percent from last seasons revised output. Harvested area is estimated at 5.5 million hectares, up 0.3 million from last month and up 12 percent from last year. As of late-August, planting was virtually complete, according to the Ministry of Agriculture. The weather and planting conditions have been generally favorable to date; however, light frost in late August across central and southern Buenos Aires and La Pampa burnt back very early vegetative growth. Yield is unchanged this month at 2.34 tons per hectare and is slightly below the 1998/99 crop as less fertilizer is being used which will restrict potential yield.

Oct 1 1999 | ARGENTINA: 1999/2000 COTTON AREA DOWN
Cotton production for 1999/2000 is forecasted at 900,000 bales, unchanged from last month and from last year. Area is forecasted at 500,000 hectares, unchanged from last month, but 23 percent below last season. Three consecutive poor crops and little government support have left farmers in a tight financial situation. So far this season, the cotton region has experienced dry weather since May. In the main cotton-producing province of Chaco, about 100,000 hectares intended for sunflower seed were not planted, leaving the possibility that the area could be planted to cotton, soybeans or remain not planted. The final area cotton area will depend on how several factors develop over the planting season which starts soon and continues until December. These factors include price, the availability of economic support from the government, the financing capacity of the private sector and the weather.

Oct 1 1999 | ARGENTINA: SOYBEAN FORECAST INCREASED DUE TO BETTER PRICES
Argentinas 1999/2000 soybean crop is forecasted at 18.0 million tons, up 0.5 million tons or 3 percent from last month but remains 5 percent below last season. The harvested area is forecast at 7.5 million hectares, up 0.25 million hectares from last month and equal to last years area. With the planting season set to begin in November, a recent improvement in prices has provided an increased incentive to plant. Soybean yield is forecast to decline year-to-year as a larger area was planted to wheat this year and a larger percentage of the crop is expected to be planted in fields following wheat. Soybeans planted after wheat are typically lower-yielding, shorter-growth-season varieties, that must also contend with reduced soil moisture.

Nov 1 1999 | ARGENTINA: SOYBEAN AREA AND PRODUCTION REVISED HIGHER
Argentinas 1999/2000 soybean production is estimated at 18.5 million tons, up 0.5 million from last month but 7 percent below last season. Harvested area is estimated at 7.7 million hectares, up 3 percent from last month and last season. Area is revised higher based on the recent improvement in price outlook for soybeans. Weather conditions for sowing have also improved as recent rains boosted soil moisture. The Argentine Agricultural Secretariat reports planting intentions at 2.4 percent above last seasons planted area. Expansion is expected to come from a larger area of second-crop soybeans to be sown after wheat, as area currently planted to wheat is estimated 13 percent higher than last season. In addition, some area previously sown to sunflower and peanuts is expected to be shifted to soybeans this season. Production figures for the 1997/98 and 1998/99 seasons were also up this month, 2 and 5 percent respectively, with the production increases based on current crush data.

Dec 1 1999 | ARGENTINA: WHEAT AREA AND PRODUCTION ESTIMATED HIGHER
Argentinas 1999/2000 wheat production is estimated at 14.0 million tons, up 1.3 million from last month and 22 percent above last season. Harvested area is estimated at 5.8 million hectares, up 6 percent from last month and 13 percent above last season. Area is revised higher based on a higher planted area estimate recently reported by the Argentine Agricultural Secretariat. The wheat crop is in generally good condition aided by recent rains which fell throughout the wheat-growing region, improving moisture levels and prospects for the developing wheat. In Buenos Aires and La Pampa provinces, crop stage varies from jointing to flowering. Farther north, the crop is in more advanced flowering to grain-filling stages. Harvest of early-planted wheat is underway in the northernmost provinces

Dec 1 1999 | ARGENTINA: COTTON PRODUCTION SLASHED DUE TO DRY CONDITIONS
The 199/2000 cotton production estimate for Argentina is lowered this month to 0.55 million bales, down 0.35 million bales or 39 percent from last month and last season. Harvested area is estimated at 325,000 hectares, down 175,000 hectares or 35 percent from last month and or 50 percent from last season. Dry conditions have persisted in the cotton-growing region during the previous three months, the normal planting period for cotton. Soil moisture continues to remain low at the surface and subsurface causing delays in planting and affecting development of the crop planted earlier in the season. Recent rains have been light and had little impact on this long-tern dryness. Planting is normally 70 to 80 percent complete by this time. However, if moisture conditions do not improve, there may be little, if any, additional planting in the coming weeks. As the planting period ends, farmers may elect to plant shorter-season, lower-yielding varieties of cotton or decide to plant soybeans instead.

Dec 1 1999 | SOUTH AMERICA: DRY CONDITIONS PUT OILSEEDS AT RISK
South America oilseed production is lowered this month by 320,000 metric tons to 62.1 million tons; however, further drops in production may occur if regional dryness persists. Worst hit have been, northern Argentina, most of Paraguay, southeastern Bolivia, and western regions of Parana and Mato Grosso do Sul in Brazil. On the other hand, planting conditions in some important producing regions, for example Buenos Aires province in Argentina and the state of Mato Grosso in Brazil, have been excellent in the last few weeks. Though past its optimum, the planting season in Paraguay remains open, and rainfall in the next weeks will allow crops to establish before the more critical part of the growing season in February and March. Paraguay soybean output is currently estimated at 3.0 million tons, unchanged from last season. Bolivian soybean production is estimated 100,000 tons lower this month at 950,000 tons. Yield is estimated at 1.9 tons per hectare, better than the 1.6 tons of last years drought-devastated crop, but below the 5-year average. The cottonseed region in northern Argentina has been dry, and the cottonseed-harvested-area estimate is lowered this month by 35 percent to 325,000 hectares, with production dropping from 350,000 to 230,000 tons. The outlook for soybeans in western Parana and Mato Grosso do Sul is much the same as it is in Paraguay. Rain is needed to allow for planting and establishment of the crop. The soybean production estimate for Brazil is unchanged this month at 31.0 million tons.

Dec 1 1999 | ARGENTINA: WHEAT PRODUCTION RAISED BY FAVORABLE HARVEST WEATHER
Argentinas wheat production for 1999/2000 is raised to 14.5 million tons, up 0.5 million from last month and up 21 percent from the revised 1998/99 output. As of November 26, wheat harvest was 13 percent complete and is progressing without delays due to dry weather. Harvest activity is well underway in Santa Fe and Cordoba provinces, and is beginning in Buenos Aires. The yields in northern Santa Fe are reportedly below expectations due to the drought that struck that region, while the situation in Buenos Aires province for those areas that have already been harvested is better. The effect of recent frosts in southern Buenos Aires caused localized damage and is expected to have a minimal impact on the total crop size. Within the next few weeks, the harvest will move into more important wheat growing areas and the volume arriving at country stations and export ports will increase rapidly. Exports silos are being cleaned out to prepare for the influx of product, and at least in the short term, infrastructure should not be stressed.

Jun 1 2005 | Argentina: 2005/06 Soybean Production Forecast Equal to Last Years Record
Soybean production for Argentina is forecast at a record 39.0 million tons, unchanged from last years production. Soybean area is forecast at a record 14.7 million hectares, up 0.3 million or 2 percent from last years area of 14.4 million. Yield is forecast at 2.65 tons per hectare. Argentina continues to find new soybean area. New land for soybeans has come at the expense of grain crops, especially in Argentinas heartland, the Zona Nucleo. Corn area is expected to decline by 5 percent from last year. Further to the west and north, new soybean land is from converted pasture; and in the far north and west¶in Chaco, Santiago del Estero, and Salta Provinces¶new soybean land is being cultivated from scrubland or natural vegetation. The annualized rate of increase in soybean area from 1995/96 to 2003/04 was 11 percent per year. The rate of increase from 2003/04 to 2005/06 is estimated at 2 percent. (For more information, contact Bob Tetrault at 202-690-0130.)

Sep 1 2002 | Argentine 2002/03 Corn Production Forecast Up Due to Higher Area
Argentinas 2002/03 corn production is estimated at 12.5 million tons, up 1.5 million from last month, or 14 percent, but down 13 percent from last seasons output of 14.4 million tons. Economic conditions as noted above will affect corn production as well. Corn planting in Argentina begins in early September and usually reaches 50 percent of completion by the end of October. National corn yields are expected to be below average at 5.56 tons per hectare as farmers are still expected to limit their use of inputs.

Sep 1 2002 | Argentine 2002/03 Soybean Production Forecast Up Due to Higher Yields
Soybean production in Argentina for 2002/03 is forecast at a record 31.0 million tons, up 1.0 million or 3 percent from last month and up 5 percent from last years output of 29.5 million. Argentinas economic situation was chaotic after the international loan default in December 2001. The changes in export taxes, banking problems, and the currency devaluation (over 70 percent) have made decision-making for farmers difficult. However, since July the currency has stabilized and prices for agricultural commodities have increased. Larger expected returns for soybeans this season are expected to improve soybean management more than previously believed. Soybeans in Argentina are planted starting in October, for first-crop soybeans, and finishing in January, for the second crop. Soybean area is expected to increase year-to-year as farmers shift area from wheat and corn. The decrease in wheat area, especially in central Argentina, will lead to a decrease in second-crop soybean area. Farmers will opt to plant higher yielding first-crop soybeans instead.

Oct 1 2002 | Argentine Producers Favor Sunflower Planting Over Corn, While Soy Is Up Due to Cost Advantage
Relative prices prior to planting favor sunflowerseed, but soybean expansion is expected to remain strong. As a result of the favorable relative prices, sunflowerseed harvested area is expected to increase this season to 2.30 million hectares, up from 1.98 million last year and 1.89 million two years ago. Higher relative prices may explain the large increases that have already occurred in sunflower plantings in the northern provinces of Chaco and Santiago del Estero, where planted areas are reportedly up 119 and 284 percent, respectively. Planting in the northern provinces has been completed and is now beginning in the main sunflower areas of Buenos Aires, La Pampa, and Cordoba provinces. Despite price signals being neutral between soybeans and corn, harvested area for soybeans is forecast to increase 6 percent to 12.0 million hectares, while corn is forecast to decline 8 percent to 2.25 million. Farmers are expected to plant more soybeans because they are a lower input-cost crop than corn, an important deciding factor this year when farmers access to credit is restricted due to Argentinas economic collapse. The sunflowerseed/soybean price ratio in July when Argentine farmers were preparing for the 2002/03 planting season was higher this year at 1.14, above 0.97 last year and 0.86 prior to the 2000/01 campaign, using FOB Argentina prices. Meanwhile, the soybean/corn price ratio was fairly neutral at 2.10. This is about the same as last years 2.14, but down slightly from 2.24 prior to the 2000/01 planting season. Absolute prices in July were favorable for all three crops. FOB prices in dollar terms were up 10 percent for corn, 9 percent for soybeans and 27 percent for sunflowerseed relative to July 2001. With the exchange rate shift, prices in pesos are up 314 percent for corn, 307 percent for soybeans, and 378 percent for sunflowerseed.

Nov 1 2002 | Less Chaotic Economic Picture in Argentina Helps Soybeans and Corn
Argentinas economic situation has stabilized after the chaotic first half of 2002 brought on by Argentinas loan default in December 2001. The changes in export taxes, banking problems, and currency devaluation (over 70 percent) have made decision-making for farmers difficult. However, since July 2002 the currency has stabilized and prices for grains have increased. Larger returns for soybeans are expected to result in more careful management of soybeans this season than previously believed. Argentine soybean production for 2002/03 is forecast at a record 32.5 million tons, up 1.5 million tons or 5 percent from last month and up 8 percent from last years revised output of 30.0 million. Soybean area is forecast at a record 12.3 million hectares, up 0.3 million hectares or 3 percent from last month and up 0.9 million or 8 percent from last years revised area of 11.4 million. Yields are forecast at 2.64 tons per hectare, higher than the 5-year average of 2.44. Soybean area is expected to increase as farmers shift area from wheat and corn. The decrease in wheat area, especially in central Argentina, will lead to a decrease in second-crop soybean area as farmers opt to plant higher-yielding, first-crop soybeans instead. Argentinas 2002/03 corn production is estimated at 13.0 million tons, up 0.5 million from last month, or 4 percent, but down 10 percent from last seasons output of 14.4 million tons. Harvested area is forecast at 2.35 million hectares, up 100,000 hectares from last month but down 4 percent from last season. Yield is forecast below average at 5.53 tons per hectare. A more stable economic situation for farms has induced farmers to plant more corn this season than previously believed, however, corn area is lower than last year due to the relative price advantage and the reduced risk of planting soybeans. National corn yields are expected at 5.53 tons per hectare below average, as farmers are still expected to limit their use of some inputs.

Dec 1 2002 | Argentine 2002/03 Wheat Production Declines Due to Heavy Rains
Argentinas 2002/03 wheat production is estimated at 13.5 million tons, down 0.5 million tons or 4 percent from last month, and 13 percent lower than last years output of 15.5 million. Wheat area is estimated at 5.9 million hectares, down 0.1 million or 2 percent from last month and down 13 percent from last years area of 6.8 million. Yields are forecast at 2.29 tons per hectare, similar to the 10-year average. Heavy rains in November in southern Buenos Aires Province have flooded some wheat area and increased the amount of crop loss. Wheat yields are expected similar to last years crop, but below the level of two years ago. Fewer inputs were used for this years crop due to the economic uncertainty.

Jan 1 2003 | Argentina: 2002/03 Wheat Production Declines Due to Heavy Rains
Wheat production for 2002/03 is forecast at 13.0 million tons, down 0.5 million tons or 4 percent from last month and 16 percent lower than last years output of 15.5 million. Wheat area is estimated at 5.9 million hectares, unchanged from last month, but down 13 percent from last years area of 6.8 million. Yields are forecast at 2.20 tons per hectare, below the 10- year average. Argentinas wheat crop is 86 percent harvested as of January 3, 2003, faster than last years pace. Early harvest results indicate poor yields in central Argentina, where the harvest is nearly complete. The harvest has begun in the key areas of southern Buenos Aires Province, and there, too, the yields are disappointing. Heavy rains in November flooded some fields and have led to increased disease that has not been managed with fungicides. Fewer inputs were used for this years crop due to the peso devaluation. Wheat planting occurred in May and June during the height of the economic crisis.

Jan 1 2003 | Argentina: 2002/03 Soybean Production Increases Due to Higher Area
Soybean production for 2002/03 is forecast at a record 33.5 million tons, up 1.0 million tons or 3 percent from last month and up 12 percent from last years output of 30.0 million. Soybean area is forecast at a record 12.5 million hectares, up 0.2 million hectares or 2 percent from last month and up 1.1 million or 10 percent from last year. Yield is forecast at 2.68 tons per hectare, higher than the 5-year average of 2.60 tons. Argentinas soybean farmers have profited from a weaker peso and better international grain prices. They have responded by increasing soybean area by nearly 10 percent. Wheat and corn areas have declined to accommodate some of the soybean area increase. Additionally, new lands are being utilized in Argentinas northern provinces of Chaco and Santiago del Estero. Soybean planting was 95 percent complete as of January 3, 2003, slightly ahead of last year. The decrease in wheat area, especially in central Argentina, has led to a decrease in second-crop soybean area. Farmers opted to plant higher- yielding first-crop soybeans instead. Higher yields from first-crop soybeans more than compensate for increased soybean planting in marginal areas as yields in these areas are lower. The 2002/03 ratio of firstand second-crop soybeans is estimated at 82:18, the lowest proportion of second-crop soybeans in the last 8 years.

Feb 1 2003 | Argentina: Wheat Production Declines due to Heavy Rains
Argentinas 2002/03 wheat production is estimated at 12.5 million tons, down 0.5 million or 4 percent from last month and 20 percent lower than last years output of 15.5 million. Wheat area is estimated at 5.9 million hectares, unchanged from last month and down 13 percent from last years area of 6.8 million. Yield is forecast at 2.12 tons per hectare, below the 10-year average. Harvest results indicate poor yields in central Argentina and key areas of southern Buenos Aires Province. Heavy rains in November flooded some fields. Producers with fields untreated with fungicides, suffered losses while wetness caused more disease pressure. Fewer inputs were used this year due to financial difficulties. Wheat planting occurred in May and June during the height of the economic uncertainty facing Argentina due to the devaluation, banking freeze, and increased export taxes.

Feb 1 2003 | Argentina: Corn Production Increases due to Higher Area and Yield
Argentinas 2002/03 corn production is estimated at 14.5 million tons, up 1.0 million from last month, or 7 percent, and up 1 percent from last seasons output of 14.4 million tons. Harvested area is forecast at 2.45 million hectares, up 100,000 hectares from last month and unchanged from last season. Yield is forecast at 5.92 tons per hectare, the second highest yield on record. Near record yields are expected for central Argentina while below normal yields are forecast for southern areas. Current satellite imagery indicates above-normal rainfall occurred during vegetative and flowering stages of corn (November to December), improving yield potential in the key corn-growing areas of central Argentina. However, high temperatures and below normal rainfall in January hurt late developing corn in southern Buenos Aires and La Pampa Provinces (9 percent of production). Favorable expected returns encouraged farmers to plant more corn this season than previously forecast, and corn area matched last years levels. Reports indicate BT corn varieties increased to 40 percent of total corn area, up from 36 percent last year, boosting yields and lowering pesticide use. Corn harvesting typically begins at the end of February, and by early May is 50 percent complete.

Feb 1 2003 | Argentina: Corn Production Increases due to Higher Area and Yield
Argentinas 2002/03 corn production is estimated at 14.5 million tons, up 1.0 million from last month, or 7 percent, and up 1 percent from last seasons output of 14.4 million tons. Harvested area is forecast at 2.45 million hectares, up 100,000 hectares from last month and unchanged from last season. Yield is forecast at 5.92 tons per hectare, the second highest yield on record. Near record yields are expected for central Argentina while below normal yields are forecast for southern areas. Current satellite imagery indicates above-normal rainfall occurred during

Mar 1 2003 | Argentina: Bumper 2002/03 Soybean Crop Forecast
Argentine soybean production for 2002/03 is forecast at a record 35.0 million tons, up 1.5 million tons or 4 percent from last month and up 17 percent from last years output of 30.0 million. Soybean area is forecast at a record 12.5 million hectares, unchanged from last month and up 1.1 million or 10 percent from last years area of 11.4 million. Yield is forecast at 2.80 tons per hectare, matching the record yield of 1997/98. Recent field travel by a USDA team found soybean conditions are good to excellent in central Argentina. Above-normal rainfall came during planting and vegetative stages (November to December), and ample rains during critical reproductive stages for first-crop soybeans occurred in mid-February. Soil moisture and current precipitation should provide ideal conditions for second-crop soybeans, which will be in the most critical stage within the next 10 days. First-crop soybeans are planted in the spring following a winter fallow period, whereas second-crop soybeans are planted in late spring to early summer following winter wheat harvest. Several areas are expecting records in either first-crop yields or second-crop yields. National yields are forecast to match the record of 1997/98. Wheat and corn areas have declined to accommodate some of the soybean area increase. Additionally, new lands are being exploited in Argentinas northern provinces of Chaco and Santiago del Estero. The decrease in wheat area, especially in central Argentina, has led to a decrease in second-crop soybean area. Farmers have opted to plant higher yielding first-crop soybeans instead. The 2002/03 ratio of first- and second-crop soybeans is estimated at 82:18, the lowest amount of second-crop soybeans in the last 8 years.

Apr 1 2003 | Argentina: Excellent Weather Boosts Forecast Corn Yields in 2002/03 to a Record Level
Argentinas 2002/03 corn production is estimated at 15.0 million tons, up 0.5 million from last month, and up 4 percent from last seasons output of 14.4 million. Harvested area is forecast at 2.45 million hectares, unchanged from last month. Yield is forecast at a record 6.12 metric tons per hectare. Above-normal rainfall during vegetative and flowering stages of corn in November and December improved yield potential, especially for the dry corn-growing areas of central Argentina. Almost 70 percent of corn is located in central Argentina. Continued excellent weather conditions propelled Argentine corn harvesting to a record pace. Harvest progress has set records this year with 43 percent complete as of April 4, compared to 25 percent last year, according to the Argentine Ministry of Agriculture. (Robert Tetrault, 202/690-0130)

May 1 2003 | Argentina 2003/04 Wheat Production Rebounds from Last Year
Argentinas 2003/04 wheat production is estimated at 14.5 million tons, up 2.2 million or 18 percent from last years disappointing output of 12.3 million. Wheat area is estimated at 6.0 million hectares, up 0.1 million or 2 percent from last years area of 5.9 million. Yields are forecast at 2.42 tons per hectare, slightly below the 5-year average. Argentinas wheat production should return to more normal levels in 2003/04, a rebound from 2002/03 when yields were poor. Wheat yields in 2003/04 are expected near the 5-year average, much better than last year when yields were 2.09 tons per hectare¶the lowest in 6 years. On a slightly larger area, input use is expected to return to normal levels based on better access to credit.

Sep 1 2003 | Argentina: Lower Area Reduces 2003/04 Wheat Production
Argentinas 2003/04 wheat production is estimated at 13.5 million tons, down 1.0 million or 7 percent from last month. As planting is completed, lower harvested area is estimated at 5.8 million hectares, down 0.2 million or 3 percent. Argentinas wheat planting season runs from May to the end of August. Precipitation in the main wheat-growing areas of southern Buenos Aires Province has been less than normal, which led to planting delays in the western delegations of Bahia Blanca and Pigue of Buenos Aires Province, and in neighboring La Pampa Province. Wheat in these areas is expected to be developmentally delayed; however, a warm and moist September will allow a quick recovery. Wheat yields in 2003/04 are expected to be slightly below the 5-year average, but much better than last years yields of 2.09 tons per hectare¶the lowest in 6 years. The wheat harvest begins in late October and typically is 50 percent complete by mid-December. (For more information, contact Robert Tetrault at 202-690-0130.)

Nov 1 2003 | Argentina: 2003/04 Soybean Area Increases as Corn and Sunflower Reduced
Argentinas 2003/04 soybean production is forecast at a record 38.0 million tons, up 1.0 million or 3 percent from last month and up 7 percent from last seasons output of 35.5 million. Harvested area is forecast at a record 13.6 million hectares, up 0.4 million or 3 percent from last month and up 8 percent from last season. Yield is forecast at 2.79 tons per hectare, above average but below trend. Soybean area has increased as farmers switch away from corn and sunflowers. Delays in corn and sunflower planting may mean lower yield potential for those crops, providing incentive to switch to soybeans. Soybeans have become more profitable with the recent run-up in international prices following a decline in prospects for the U.S. crop. Soybean planting has just begun, reaching 8 percent as of November 1, 2003. Planting is typically 50 percent complete by early December. The drought in the western crop areas includes Cordoba Province, an important soybean producer. About one-quarter of the soybean crop is in soil moisture deficit areas where moisture content is below 20 percent. If drought persists, soybean farmers in drought-affected areas may plant corn later. Late-planted corn is likely to be used for silage for the recovering dairy sector. Argentinas 2003/04 sunflower production is forecast at 3.7 million tons, down 12 percent from last month, with harvested area forecast at 2.1 million hectares, down 9 percent from last month. Roughly one-third of the sunflower crop is in areas with a soil moisture deficit below 20 percent. Sunflower planting is 36 percent complete as of October 31, 2003, slower than average. (For more information, contact Robert Tetrault at 202-690-0130.)

Nov 1 2003 | Argentina: Drought Reduces 2003/04 Wheat Production, Crop Still Higher than Last Year
Argentinas 2003/04 wheat production is forecast at 13.0 million tons, down 0.5 million or 4 percent from last month, but up 6 percent from last seasons weather-reduced crop of 12.3 million tons. Harvested area is forecast at 5.8 million hectares, unchanged from last month, but down 2 percent from last season. Yield is forecast below average at 2.24 tons per hectare. The same dry conditions affecting corn in parts of La Pampa, Cordoba, and Buenos Aires Provinces are affecting wheat crops. Drought will affect the wheat crop less than the corn crop, because no more than one-fifth of Argentinas wheat crop is in soil moisture deficit areas where moisture content is below 20 percent. Rainfall has been below normal in the west, significantly below last years rainfall amount. Rainfall in October stabilized yield potential in southern Buenos Aires Province, that accounts for 34 percent of production. Rainfall was timely because wheat typically flowers in the first part of November. Argentinas wheat yield in 2003/04 is expected to be below the 5-year average, but much better than last years yield, which was 2.09 tons per hectare¶the lowest in 6 years. Wheat harvest begins in late October in Argentina and is 50 percent complete by mid-December. (For more information, contact Robert Tetrault at 202-690-0130.)

Nov 1 2003 | Drought Reduces Corn and Wheat Production;
Argentinas 2003/04 corn production is forecast at 14.0 million tons, down 2.0 million or 13 percent from last month and down 10 percent from last seasons estimate of 15.5 million. Harvested area is forecast at 2.4 million hectares, down 0.2 million or 8 percent from last month, and lower than last season. Yield is forecast at 5.83 tons per hectare, down 5 percent from last month. Drought in the western provinces of Cordoba and La Pampa delayed corn planting and lowered yield potential. Roughly one-quarter of Argentinas corn crop is in soil moisture deficit areas where moisture content is below 20 percent. Corn planting progress reached 47 percent by October 31, the slowest pace in the last 7 years. The most severe planting delays, and where the drought is most severe, are in Rio Cuarto delegation in Cordoba Province. Farmers in drought-affected areas may plant corn later. Late-planted corn is likely to be used for silage for the recovering dairy sector. In contrast, rainfall in central Argentina has been near normal. Corn planting occurred on time in these high-yielding areas. Recent FAS field travel confirmed good conditions, and high yields are expected if the drought does not shift eastward. (For more information, contact Robert Tetrault at 202-690-0130.)

Dec 1 2003 | Wheat, Corn, Soybean, Sunflowerseed, Sorghum and Peanut Crops Reduced
Argentinas 2003/04 summer-crop planting has been delayed by drought, reducing crop production estimates for soybeans, corn, sunflowerseed, sorghum, and peanuts. Although soybean area is forecast at record levels, production is estimated to decline month-to-month due to lower yield potential. Farmers have switched to this more profitable crop, but are planting late. Wheat, in the grain-fill stage in southern Argentina, received beneficial and stabilizing rains, although the drought in western areas has reduced yields. Rainfall the first week of December has brought much needed relief to the drought areas of Cordoba Province. In some areas up to two inches of rain has fallen. Soil moisture levels are still low and more rain is needed for developing crops. Drought Prevents Planting in Some Corn Areas: Argentinas 2003/04 corn production is forecast at 13.5 million tons, down 0.5 million or 4 percent from last month, and down 13 percent from last seasons estimate of 15.5 million. Harvested area is forecast at 2.3 million hectares, down 0.1 million or 4 percent from last month, and lower than last season. Yield is forecast at 5.87 tons per hectare. Roughly 26 percent of corn production is in areas where soil moisture is below 20 percent of capacity. Corn planting progress reached 61 percent by November 28, the slowest pace in the last seven years. The most severe planting delay is in Rio Cuarto delegation, Cordoba Province. This is Argentinas most significant corn area, and where the drought is most severe. Farmers in southern Cordoba are faced with hard decisions. First, they can plant corn late with reduced yield potential. Newer corn hybrids, such as Bt corn, allow later planting dates, and can be planted after the wheat harvest. Option two is to plant corn for silage instead of grain, useful to aid recovery in the dairy sector. Option three is to plant soybeans; this is the most likely decision for producers to make. Increases in soybean area are expected (see paragraph below). Wheat Benefits from Stabilizing Rains in South; Production Declines Slightly: Argentinas 2003/04 wheat production is estimated at 12.5 million tons, down 0.5 million or 4 percent from last month, but up slightly (2 percent) from last seasons weather-reduced crop of 12.3 million tons. Harvested area is forecast at 5.7 million hectares, down 0.1 million hectares from last month, and down 3 percent from last season. Yield is forecast at 2.19 tons per hectare, below average. Harvesting has begun in northern Argentina and 35 percent was collected as of December 6. Early reports indicate yields below average for southern Cordoba and La Pampa Provinces and harvest losses above normal. Harvested area was reduced by 100,000 hectares. Other early reports indicate yields better than expected in northern Cordoba and Santa Fe Provinces where there was enough soil moisture for grain fill. Quality is expected to be better than last year. The important wheat areas of southern Buenos Aires start harvesting in mid-December. Yields in these key growing-areas are expected to equal or exceed last year. Soybean Area Rises as Farmers Switch From Corn; Yield Potential Declines: Argentinas 2003/04 soybean production is forecast at a record 36.5 million tons, down 1.5 million or 4 percent from last month, but up 3 percent from last seasons output of 35.5 million. Harvested area is forecast at a record 13.7 million hectares, up 0.1 million or 1 percent from last month and up 9 percent from last season. Yield is forecast at 2.66 tons per hectare, slightly above average. Soybean area is up from last month as farmers switch away from corn and sunflowers. Drought conditions prevented planting as much corn and sunflower as intended. Additionally, soybeans are much more profitable than late-planted and perhaps lower-yielding corn. Soybean planting reached 44 percent as of November 28, slower than average due to drought in Cordoba Province. Roughly 24 percent of soybean production is in areas where soil moisture is below 20 percent of capacity. Recent rain is expected to spur soybean planting on record area. Early-season drought in western crop areas resulted in late planting of soybeans and a possible shift to lower-yielding short-cycle maturity groups. This has lowered yield potential. Yields are expected below trend but above average. Soil moisture in the west is low, affecting yield potential. Drought Prevents Planting of Some Sunflower Area: Argentinas 2003/04 sunflowerseed production is forecast at 3.3 million tons, down 0.4 million or 11 percent from last month and down 11 percent from last seasons output. Harvested area is forecast at 1.9 million hectares, down 0.2 million or 10 percent from last month and down 19 percent from last season. Yield is forecast at a near average 1.74 tons per hectare. Continued drought in western crop areas (Cordoba and La Pampa Provinces) in November has delayed and in some cases prevented sunflower planting. Roughly 34 percent of sunflowerseed production is in areas where soil moisture is below 20 percent capacity. Sunflower planting is 71 percent complete as of November 28; slower than average. Planting should be finished by early December, but less area will be sown. Conditions have been near normal for northern Argentina where the early-season sunflower crop is grown. Southern Buenos Aires Province, where planting began in November, has received beneficial rainfall. Yields are expected to be near average. Sunflower tolerates dry conditions better than corn or soybeans. Sorghum and Peanuts Hit Hard: Argentinas 2003/04 sorghum production is forecast at 2.1 million tons, down 0.6 million or 22 percent from last month and down 25 percent from last seasons output. Harvested area is forecast at 0.45 million hectares, down 0.13 million or 22 percent from last month and down 18 percent from last season. Yield is forecast at 4.67 tons per hectare, near average. Argentinas 2003/04 peanut production is forecast at 215,000 tons, down 85,000 or 28 percent from last month and down slightly from last seasons output of 220,000. Harvested area is forecast at 140,000 hectares, down 55,000 or 28 percent from last month and down 10 percent from last season. Yield is forecast at 1.54 tons per hectare, near average. Cordoba Province has over 95 percent of Argentine peanut production. Rio Cuarto delegation in Cordoba is the center of Argentine peanut production and the center of the drought. The recent rainfall has spurred more interest in planting, but time is running out. (For more information, contact Bob Tetrault at 202-690-0130.)

Jan 1 2004 | Argentina: Sunflowerseed Yield Reduced
Argentinas 2003/04 sunflowerseed production is forecast at 3.0 million tons, down 0.3 million or 9 percent from last month and down 19 percent from last seasons output. Harvested area is forecast at 1.9 million hectares, unchanged from last month and down 19 percent from last season. Yield is forecast below average at 1.58 tons per hectare because of poor conditions in western crop areas (Cordoba and La Pampa Provinces). Drought during November affected 34 percent of the sunflower crop. Sunflower planting is complete, but the drought delayed, and in some cases prevented, sunflower planting. Field travel in mid-December by USDA personnel confirmed the reportedly poor condition of sunflowers in western Cordoba. Sunflowers were wilted, stunted, and had small heads. Sunflower harvesting has started in northern Argentina and good yields are reported. In southern Buenos Aires Province, conditions have been good and the crop is in the vegetative stage; good yields are expected there, too. (For more information, contact Robert Tetrault at 202-690-0130.)

Jan 1 2004 | Argentina: Poor Establishment of Late-Planted Corn Reduces 2003/04 Corn Area
Argentinas 2003/04 corn production is forecast at 12.5 million tons, down 1.0 million or 7 percent from last month and down 19 percent from last seasons estimate of 15.5 million. Harvested area is forecast at 2.10 million hectares, down 0.2 million or 9 percent from last month and 14 percent lower than last season. Yields are forecast at 5.95 tons per hectare, above average, but below last years record. The late-planted corn in western Cordoba Province had poor establishment conditions, which may lead to increased abandonment or harvest losses. Forecast harvested area has been reduced by 200,000 hectares this month to account for prevented plantings and an above-average estimate of harvest losses: 24 percent compared to an average of 20 percent. Drought during November in western crop areas (Cordoba and La Pampa Provinces) delayed and in some cases prevented corn planting. Rain the first week of December allowed planting to finish up, but corn area decreased as farmers switched to soybeans. The most severe planting delay was in Rio Cuarto delegation, Cordoba Province. This is Argentinas largest corn area, and where the drought was most severe. The late-planted corn, which had emerged by mid-December, suffered ten days of dryness. It may not have had sufficient rooting depth to survive this period of dryness, and there was very little surface soil moisture. The lower than normal temperatures, with highs below 30 Celsius provided some relief. Heavy rainfall on December 27 provided more relief. Field travel in mid-December by USDA personnel confirmed the poor condition of late-planted corn in western Cordoba. Yield potential for late-planted corn is highly variable, ranging between 2.5 and 8.5 tons per hectare. In addition to the problems in western Cordoba, corn in eastern Cordoba was suffering drought stress in some areas. Plant height was shorter than expected. Fertilizer applications were not made due to the earlier dryness. The drought is localized in Cordoba and La Pampa Provinces. In Santa Fe Province, east of Cordoba, corn conditions were very good. The corn was entering the flowering stage with ample soil moisture. Corn in the rest of Argentina is doing very well, and record yields are expected for those areas. (For more information, contact Robert Tetrault at 202-690-0130.)

Feb 1 2004 | Argentina: High Yields in Southern Buenos Aires Improve 2003/04 Wheat Production
Argentinas 2003/04 wheat production is forecast at 13.5 million tons, up 1.0 million or 8 percent from last month and up 10 percent from last seasons weather-reduced crop of 12.3 million tons. Harvested area is forecast at 5.7 million hectares, unchanged from last month, but down 3 percent from last season. The harvest of Argentine wheat was finished by mid-January, and yields in southeastern Buenos Aires Province exceeded expectations. Yields in the delegations of Tandil and Tres Arroyos were higher than expected due to beneficial rains in the last 3 months of 2003; this was the grain fill stage for wheat. Despite the drought in western grain areas, overall yields reached near normal levels. Yield is forecast at 2.37 tons per hectare, slightly below the 5-year average of 2.40 tons per hectare. Quality is expected to be better than last year. The marketing of Argentinas wheat is slow. Producers have no pressing need to turn crops into cash and continue to be wary of Argentinas banking system. (For more information, contact Robert Tetrault at 202-690-0130.)

Apr 1 2004 | Paraguay: Lower 2003/04 Soybean Production Results From Dry Conditions; Area Estimates Increase
Paraguays 2003/04 soybean production is forecast at 4.0 million tons, down 11 percent from last month and down 11 percent from last seasons revised output of 4.5 million. Harvested area is forecast at a record 1.75 million hectares, up 6 percent from last month and up 13 percent from last season. Yield is forecast at 2.29 tons per hectare, which is below the 5-year average. Harvest has begun and 70 percent has been collected. Yields are expected below average due to dryness in eastern Paraguay. Paraguays soybeans are concentrated along the Parana River in eastern Paraguay. The dryness has had a disproportionately larger effect because of the concentration of soybean area and the narrower time span for yield-sensitive stages. After abundant rains in December and early January, rainfall has been below normal for February and March. Recent fieldwork by the U.S. Agricultural Attachés office in Buenos Aires confirmed lower-than-expected soybean results. Yields have varied between 1 and 3 tons per hectare. Early harvested soybeans yielded higher than later ones. Soybean area is forecast at a record 1.75 million hectares, up 0.1 million hectares from last month. Soybean area has steadily increased as Brazilian farmers invest in Paraguay. (For more information, contact Robert Tetrault at 202-690-0130.)

Apr 1 2004 | Argentina: Dry Conditions Lower 2003/04 Soybean Production; Area Estimates Increase
Argentinas 2003/04 soybean production is forecast at 35.0 million tons, down 4 percent from last month and down 1 percent from last seasons output of 35.5 million. Harvested area is forecast at a record 14.0 million hectares, up 2 percent from last month and up 11 percent from last season. Yield is forecast at 2.50 tons per hectare, which is below the 5-year average. The harvest has begun and 19 percent of the crop has been collected as of April 2. Yields, so far, have been below average. Central Argentine districts of southern Santa Fe and eastern Cordoba are not as productive as last year. Dryness since late January has affected yield potential. This reverses earlier conditions when central Argentina benefited from early season rainfall. After the relatively good start of the season, February and March rainfall has been below normal. In contrast, early season conditions were poor in southern and western Cordoba and farmers switched intentions from planting corn and sunflowers to soybeans. Ample rainfall starting in late December has reversed conditions in these districts and has improved yield prospects. Soybean area is up 11 percent from last year because drought conditions prevented planting as much corn and sunflowers as originally intended, especially in southern and western Cordoba. Additionally, soybeans were much more profitable than late-planted and perhaps lower-yielding corn. USDA estimates soybean harvested area at a record 14.0 million hectares, up 0.3 million from last month. Some of the newly reported area is presumed to be in southern and western Cordoba, probably from pasture. USDA assumes average harvest losses of less than 3 percent. (For more information, contact Robert Tetrault at 202-690-0130.)

May 1 2004 | Argentina: Dry Conditions Lower 2003/04 Soybean Production
Argentinas 2003/04 soybean production is estimated at 34.0 million tons, down 3 percent from last month and down 4 percent from last seasons output of 35.5 million. Harvested area is forecast at a record 14.0 million hectares, unchanged from last month and up 11 percent from last season. Yield is forecast at 2.43 tons per hectare, which is below the 5-year average. Harvest has begun and 54 percent was collected as of April 30, a pace slightly ahead of the 5-year average. Dryness since late January has affected yield potential in central Argentina while western crop areas benefited from frequent rains. This reverses earlier conditions for both areas. April rainfall in both areas was above normal¶too late for first-crop soybeans and marginally affecting the second-crop. Vegetative health in western areas at the end of February 2004 was similar to the previous year. The pace of harvest in western crop areas is slower than last year, which was expected due to late planting. Preliminary reports from districts across central Argentina indicate lower yields that are well below last years record, and some areas are reporting highly variable yields. The reports are preliminary, however, and need to be cautiously reviewed. (For more information, contact Robert Tetrault at 202-690-0130.)

Oct 1 2004 | Argentina: Sunflower Area Reduced
Argentinas 2004/05 sunflowerseed production is forecast at 3.4 million tons, down 0.6 million from last month, but up from last seasons output of 3.2 million. Harvested area is forecast at 2.0 million hectares, down 0.35 million from last month. Yield is forecast at 1.7 tons per hectare, slightly below average. Early-season conditions for sunflowers in northern Argentina have not been favorable. Dryness and cold have diminished planting intentions for this crop. Further south, dryness in central Argentina has delayed planting. Sunflower planting was 13 percent complete as of October 1, slower than last years pace. Planting began in late August in northern Argentina and continues through December in southern Buenos Aires Province. (For more information, contact Robert Tetrault at 202-690-0130.)

Jan 1 2005 | Argentina: High Yields in Southern Buenos Aires Province Improves 2004/05 Wheat Production
Argentinas 2004/05 wheat production is forecast at 16.0 million tons, up 1.0 million from last month and up 18 percent from last season. Harvested area is forecast at 6.1 million hectares, unchanged from last month, and up 7 percent from last season. Yield is forecast at 2.62 tons per hectare, above the five-year average of 2.38. Wheat harvesting is over 80 percent complete as of December 31, 2004, and overall yields are higher than last year. Conditions have been varied across Argentina this year, and can be divided into three distinct areas¶northern growing areas, western crop areas, and southern Buenos Aires. In northern growing areas of northern Cordoba and Santa Fe Provinces, drought conditions persisted for a second year. Yields are below average. In western crop areas of La Pampa, southern Cordoba, and southwestern Buenos Aires Provinces conditions showed dramatic improvement relative to last year. Yields are expected higher in western crop areas. The key area of southern Buenos Aires Province had surprisingly good yields. This area, comprising the delegations of Tres Arroyos and Tandil, accounts for over a third of production. Better distributed rainfall in early spring allowed increased tillering. Rainfall during reproductive and grain-fill stages was very beneficial. The harvest is beginning in these areas and reported yields are record or near record. Coastal areas have the highest yields, but heavy rainfall may cause some harvest delays. (For more information, contact Robert Tetrault at 202-690-0130 or robert.tetrault@usda.gov.)

Jan 1 2005 | Argentina: Record Yield, Higher Area Increases 2004/05 Corn Production
Argentinas 2004/05 corn production is forecast at 17.0 million tons, up 1.5 million from last month, and up 26 percent from last seasons revised estimate of 13.5 million. Harvested area is forecast at 2.65 million hectares, up 23 percent from last year. Yield is forecast at a record 6.42 tons per hectare, above average but below trend. A 10-year trend for corn is 6.73 tons per hectare. Crop conditions for early development of corn have been near ideal. August and September rainfall was below normal for northern Cordoba and Santa Fe Provinces which delayed corn planting; however, rainfall in October and early November was highly beneficial for planting. Corn planting is nearly complete as of December 31, 2004. The early planted corn is at the silk-tassel stage and the later planted corn will tassel in mid January. Area is estimated to increase by 23 percent from last year. Some corn planting (0.5 million hectares) was prevented by severe drought in Cordoba and La Pampa Provinces last year. Corn area is expected to return to normal levels, especially in western Cordoba and La Pampa Provinces. Additional area switched from soybeans to corn in central Argentina. Corn is more profitable than soybeans in central Argentina where high corn yields can be achieved. The Argentine government revised planting intentions upward in December. Yield potential is high due to the increase in fertilizer use, improved varieties, and favorable weather to date. The main corn area is expecting record or near record corn yields. Excessively high temperatures in January may reduce some yield potential. Ample soil moisture may mitigate the high heat and maintain relative humidity levels. (For more information, contact Robert Tetrault at 202-690-0130 or robert.tetrault@usda.gov.)

Feb 1 2005 | Argentina: Record Yield Increases 2004/05 Corn Production
Argentinas 2004/05 corn production is forecast at 17.5 million tons, up 0.5 million from last month, and up 25 percent from last seasons revised estimate of 14.0 million. Harvested area is forecast at 2.65 million hectares, up 23 percent from last year. Yield is forecast at a record 6.60 tons per hectare, above average but below trend. A 10-year trend for corn is 6.731 tons per hectare. Central Argentine corn areas continued to receive beneficial precipitation during early January, despite the lower amounts in the later part of the month. Yield is forecast to increase due to more of the corn crop successfully passed through the yield-sensitive silk-tassel stage. Crop conditions for corn planted in September have been near ideal. The vegetative stages had plenty of moisture and precipitation which carried the crop into the silk-tassel stage (late December and early January). Crop conditions for corn planted in October have been adequate to good; however, low precipitation amounts in late January may have reduced yield potential for some areas. The vast majority of Argentinas corn crop is in central Argentina¶about two-thirds. Not all crop conditions are ideal, however. Soil moisture deficits remain in southern Buenos Aires Province. This area is moving into the silk-tassel stage and expected yields are lower. This area accounts for 13 percent of production. Area is estimated to increase by 23 percent from last year. Some corn planting (0.5 million hectares) was prevented by severe drought in Cordoba and La Pampa Provinces last year. Corn area is expected to return to normal levels, especially in western Cordoba and La Pampa Provinces. Additional area switched from soybeans to corn in central Argentina. Corn is more profitable than soybeans in central Argentina where high corn yields can be achieved. The Argentine government revised planting intentions upward in December. Yield potential continues to increase in Argentina; however, levels are lower than in the United States. Improvements in varieties and increased use of fertilizer are believed to account for the steady gains in Argentina and higher yields can be expected in the future. For the 2003/04 season, 75 percent of the corn area was fertilized with nitrogen, and the rates vary between 50 and 200 kilograms per hectare. (For more information, contact Robert Tetrault at 202-690-0130 or robert.tetrault@usda.gov.)

Mar 1 2005 | Paraguay: Drought Reduces 2004/05 Soybean Production
Paraguays 2004/05 soybean production is forecast at 4.5 million tons, down 0.5 million from last month, but up 13 percent from last season. Harvested area is forecast at 2.0 million hectares, up 14 percent from last year and unchanged from last month. Yield is forecast at 2.25 tons per hectare, below the five-average of 2.53 tons per hectare. Paraguays main soybean growing areas are along the border with Brazils Parana State. Soybeans in these areas have been affected by sporadic dryness during January and February. Rainfall has been below normal for these two months, although November and December rainfall was above normal. The yield critical stages of podset and podfill occur in late January and early February. (For more information, contact Robert Tetrault at 202-690-0130.)

Mar 1 2005 | Argentina: Record Yield Increases 2004/05 Corn Production
Argentinas 2004/05 corn production is forecast at a record 19.5 million tons, up 2.0 million from last month and up 30 percent from last seasons revised estimate of 15.0 million. Harvested area is forecast at 2.70 million hectares, up 17 percent from last year and up slightly from last month. Yield is forecast at a record 7.22 tons per hectare, while the 10-year trend for corn is 6.73 tons per hectare. Corn was in excellent condition in central Argentine corn areas where two-thirds of the crop is grown. Record yields are expected in this area. Crop conditions for corn planted in September were nearly ideal. The vegetative stages had plenty of soil moisture and precipitation, which carried the crop into the silk-tasseling stage (late December and early January). Currently the corn is in late grainfill to dent and the main harvest is expected to start by mid-March. Crop conditions for corn planted in October have been adequate to good; however, low precipitation in late January may have reduced yield potential locally. Southern Buenos Aires Province had a soil moisture deficit in the late vegetative phase and early silk tasseling last month. Precipitation has increased, but yields are expected to be lower in that area which accounts for 13 percent of production. (For more information, contact Robert Tetrault at 202-690-0130.)


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