January 13, 2011

Ukraine's grain harvest shows decrease

Ukraine's grain harvest in 2010 dropped by 14.6% compared to 2009, according to a statement by Ukraine's agricultural ministry on Tuesday (Jan 11).

According to the statement, Ukraine harvested 39.3 million tonnes of grain in 2010.

The drop in the harvest was caused by torrid summer and severe winter, the ministry said earlier. Meanwhile, local experts said in 2011 Ukraine's harvest would grow about 15%.

Ukraine's state statistic committee reported earlier the country had reduced the planting of winter crops by 9.1%.

Ukraine exported 6.7 million tonnes of grain in the current marketing year, which lasts from July, 2010 till June, 2011.

According to the government, the country sets limits to its grain exports "to ensure the country's food safety." However, the country's agricultural minister said Ukraine considers lifting quotas in early 2011.