January 10, 2008

Brazil announces 14 percent increase in 2007 grain yields

Brazil's grain output reached 133 million tonnes last year, a 13.7-percent increase from 2006, the Brazilian Geography and Statistics Institute (IBGE) reported Tuesday.

The 2007 produce exceeded 2003's record which was at 124 million tonnes. Corn gained 35.7-percent rise while soy attained 11.1 percent increase.

This year, Brazil is expected to set a new record of 135.8 million tonnes, the National Supply Company (Conab) said Tuesday.

Conab further estimated an increase in the country's total cultivated land, from 45.4 million hectares to 46.4 million hectares in 2008.

Impressive growth in the agricultural sector was attributed to fair weather conditions and price recovery of agricultural products.