Food Outlook - June 2007

Abstract

World cereal production in 2007 is forecast to reach 2125 million tonnes, up 6 percent from the reduced level in 2006. It would exceed world cereal utilization in 2007/08 which is forecast to grow by 2 percent, to 2 114 million tonnes. As a result, world cereal stocks are likely to rise by 10 million tonnes to 413 million tonnes, still a very low level. World trade in cereals in 2007/08 is forecast at 247 million tonnes, down slightly from 2006/07. While the prospect of a strong recovery in glob al cereal production in 2007 is a positive development for the 2007/08 marketing season, total supplies in the new season would still be barely adequate to meet an anticipated rising demand, not only from the traditional food and feed sectors but in particular from the fast-growing biofuels industry. As a result, international prices for most cereals are likely to remain high and volatile again in 2007/08...