July 30, 2004

Slovakia's 2004 Total Grain Production Seen At 2.9 Million MT

Slovakia's total grain production is estimated around 2.9 million metric tons in 2004, 54% higher compared to last year, according to information from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Foreign Agricultural Service web site, dated July 23 and released Thursday.

According to the Statistical Office of the Slovak Republic, total grain production is estimated to be at around 2.9 million MT, up by 54% in 2004 compared to last year. It is due to this year's favorable weather conditions, especially sufficient rainfalls and moderate spring temperatures. Average hectare yield is expected to increase for all commodities.

In general, most of the grain production in Slovakia is used as feed. More than one quarter of grain production goes to the food industry. The rest is used for sowing, other purposes (e.g. bio-ethanol production) and exports. There are no significant changes expected, only a slight increase in exports.

Malt, wheat, and cornstarch products will continue to be exported. In 2005, higher grain production will result in increased exports.

Slovakia joined the EU on May 1, 2004, and U.S. exports face EU's tariff rates for products from third countries.