January 26, 2005

Soybean output in China estimated at 18 million tons in 2004

The soybean output in China was estimated to reach 18 million tons in the crop year of 2004. The figure is up 16.8 per cent over 2003, according to an estimate made by the Ministry of Agriculture.

The ministry attributed the increase to higher yields and an expansion in sowing area.

Due to favorable government policies, the area sown to soybean in 2004 was estimated to have increased 3.8 per cent over 2003 to reach 145 million mu (15 mu = one hectare).

As with good weather experienced in soybean producing areas, the unit yield was higher.

The two factors were seen to have contributed to a record high output.