Ukraine barley production for 2003/04 is estimated at 6.85 million tonnes, down 1.15 million or 14 % from last month and down 3.50 million or 34 % from last year, USDA has released in its world production highlights on February 10. The revised estimate is based on preliminary harvest data released by the State Statistical Committee. Area increased by 11 % from last year, to 4.6 million hectares, following extensive reseeding of damaged winter crops. Severe drought, however, reduced the yield potential of the spring barley crop, which typically comprises about 90 % of total barley output in Ukraine. Total barley yield plunged to 1.49 tonnes per hectare, the lowest level in 40 years.

12 February, 2004