February 5, 2009
Australia 2008-09 wheat forecast unchanged
The USDA's forecast for Australia's 2008-09 total wheat production is seen unchanged at 20.15 million tonnes but slightly above average by data provided by the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics (ABARE).
Though harvest is virtually complete, very small pockets of wheat are waiting to be harvested in non-traditional areas with high rainfall. Wet conditions in November and December frustrated the 2008-09 harvest and damaged significant quantities of wheat, reports the USDA.
Total wheat exports are seen at 13.0 million tonnes, up on the previous year's drought-reduced figure of 7.502 million tonnes. More favourable weather conditions have increased export projections but it will remain below pre-drought levels.
For more of the USDA report, please click here
