March 7, 2011

Philippines to experience increasing corn production

Favourable weather condition might cause corn production to increase by 11% to seven million tonnes in 2011, according to the agriculture assistant secretary, Dennis Araullo.

As a result, corn imports may be reduced this year.

Agriculture production makes up a fifth of the country's gross domestic product.

Corn production will reach 3.3 million tonnes in the first half of the year, up 36% from 2.41 million tonnes on year.

The Philippine Maize Federation said corn production might reach 7.4 million tonnes due to good weather conditions and better prices. Yellow corn currently sells at PHP13/kilogramme (US$0.30/kilogramme).

"I am very positive because good weather conditions, good prices, as well as the expansion in areas will cause production in 2011 to surpass the expected production for 2010," said association president, Roger Navarro.

Corn farmers, he said, would gain from the moderate La Niña weather phenomenon in most major growing areas in the country.