Ukraine harvests more than 32 million tons of early grain crops
2013-08-16 15:31:39
Farmers in Ukraine have almost finished the harvesting of early grain crops, collecting more than 32.2 million tons of grain.
This was stated by Ukrainian Agricultural Policy and Food Minister Mykola Prysiazhniuk, Ukrinform reported.
"Over 32.2 million tons of early grain crops have currently been harvested on 99% of the planned areas. The gross harvest of wheat is more than 22.8 million tons, barley - 7.7 million tons, and rye - 685,000 tons," the official said.
He recalled that the forecast for the gross harvest of grain this year remains at the same level - 57.1 million tons, which is nearly 11 million tons more than last year.
In addition, farmers are planning to collect 8.5 million tons of sunflower seeds, 2.5 million tons of soybeans, 2 million tons of rapeseed, 11 million tons of sugar beets, 23 million tons of potatoes and 9.4 million tons of vegetables.
"Such a harvest will fully satisfy domestic needs of the state for crops and ensure food security and a stable price situation. An increase in production means an increase in grain exports. Both production and exports will be a record for Ukraine this year," the minister said.
According to the Agricultural Policy and Food Ministry, ending stocks of grain in the current marketing year will grow by 1 million tons, with the domestic demand being 28.4 million tons.