March 2, 2009

Brazil's grain and meat production will increase significantly in the 2018-19 crop year, according to a study by the Agriculture Ministry with projections for the next 10 years.

Grain production, including corn, soy, wheat, rice and beans, are seen to reach 180 million tonnes in 2018-19, up from 139.7 million tonnes in 2007-08, the study said.

Meat production is expected to grow 51 percent or 12.6 million tonnes compared to 2007-08.

The study estimated that Brazil's beef exports will account for 60.6 percent of the world beef trade in 10 years. Brazil is projected to supply 89.7 percent of the global chicken market, while the country's pork exports will account for 21 percent of the world market.

The study also highlighted the sharp growth in consumption in international markets.

Overpopulated countries will find it difficult to meet demand due to the exhaustion of their arable land, the study said.