February 23, 2005

Brazil southern soy output could lower from dry weather

Continued dry weather in the southern state of Rio Grande do Sul could trigger losses of over 25% to the region's soy crop, according to preliminary estimates by Gianfranco Bratta, an agronomist with Rio Grande do Sul crop agency Emater.

Scattered showers are expected to reach the region this later this week, but the rain will not be sufficient to revert the drought in the region, according to local weather forecasts.

"The soy is at a critical phases right now and needs rain.  Without more rain, losses could surpass 25%," said Bratta.

Emater has lowered its productivity estimate for Rio Grande do Sul to 1,505 kilograms per hectare from previous estimates of 2,007 kg/hectare.

Likewise, the size of the state's corn crop is likely to decline by 45%- 50% due to the drought.

Eastern Rio Grande do Sul is expected to be cloudy over the next few days, but the remainder of the state and much of Parana state are expected to have sunny weather in coming days, further threatening local crops, according to local weather service Climatempo.

Rains are expected for coming days in the center west, with a majority of the rain concentrated in Mato Grosso, according to the local Somar Meteorologia weather service.

Brazil is the world's second largest soybean producer and exporter.