March 7, 2008

Argentina soy crop evaluated in good condition

Argentina's soy production is estimated at 47 million tonnes with planted area of 17 million hectares, the USDA said.

On February 21, Argentina's secretary of agriculture reported that plantings are finished and that the crop is growing satisfactorily.

Rains since the end of January have relieved moisture stress in many areas of the core-growing region of the country.

The Buenos Aires Grains Exchange (BARE) reported on February 22 that crops in the northern provinces, as well as western Cordoba, Santa Fe, northeastern La Pampa and the northeast of Buenos Aires, are reported to be in good condition.

Along the Parana River in southern Entre Rios and northern Buenos Aires, soy stands are rated at normal condition.

The USDA pointed the few pest problems in areas where increased monitoring and fumigation for end-of-cycle insects and fungi have already been implemented.

The agency also noted that though overall yields are estimated lower than last year's campaign, crop conditions are seen at very good to good with satisfactory yield expectations.