FAS Weekly Attache Report Digest
March 29, 2003

BURMA, March 20, 2003 -- For January, Burma exported 43,840 metric tons of beans and pulses, with no border trade sales. India again took the majority of the exports, taking 84 percent.

BURMA, March 20, 2003 -- As February progressed, trade in beans and pulses began to collapse due to a cash crunch that hit traders hard. As the month progressed, a financial sector problem spilled over into the general market when bank withdrawals were severely limited. Traders could not get enough cash to facilitate normal trading and hurried to dump their bean and pulse stocks for cash, driving prices to the floor.

NIGERIA, March 20, 2003 -- Updated on March 15, 2003.

JAPAN, March 20, 2003 -- The U.S. maintained its market share of Japan's rice imports in JFY 2002 at 47.4 percent. Japan finalized a rice policy reform proposal which, if implemented as planned, could increase the efficiency of Japanese farmers and reduce prices. Food corn imports, however, may be reduced for 2003 due to a positive test for Starlink in U.S. shipments last December. BSE's impact on feed demand has been minimal, and should stabilize further as the livestock industry is returning to normal.

NIGERIA, March 20, 2003 -- On February 14, 2003, the Nigerian Customs Service issued circular no. 008/2003 which addresses under-invoicing of imported rice. The declaration states that the tariff for rice will be calculated based on $270.00/MT unless a lower amount has been authorized. It is not clear what the long term impact of this decision will be, however, combined with the high duty (effective rate of 110 percent), it is likely U.S. exports will be impacted. Currently, a shipment of Food for Progress rice is held up at the Lagos Tin Can port as the duty was not paid according to this new directive.

MOROCCO, March 20, 2003 -- Morocco's wheat and barley production is expected to be the highest since 1996, provided more rain comes during late March/April period. Traditional suppliers of wheat to Morocco have lost significant market share because of price competitive Eastern European wheat. Morocco is negotiating a free trade agreement with the U.S. and the grain sector is politically the most sensitive.

PHILIPPINES, March 20, 2003 -- Exports of coconut oil (CNO) and copra meal in November 2002 declined by 70 and 74 percent, respectively, compared to their levels the previous year. CNO and copra meal prices were generally higher. There were no copra exports during the month.

SAUDI ARABIA, March 20, 2003 -- Saudi Arabian poultry production and import estimates for CY 2002 and CY 2003 remain unchanged since our 2002 Poultry Annual report. However, the Saudi Ministry of Commerce's recent requirement for Nutrofuran testing on Brazilian poultry meat has reportedly slowed down imports of Brazilian poultry meat to Saudi Arabia in recent weeks.

MALAYSIA, March 21, 2003 -- Growing domestic demand for soymeal resulted in a 20% increase in soybean imports in MY2001/02. Imports from the U.S. rose 24% and captured 34% of the Malaysian soybean import market. Argentina remained the top soybean supplier to Malaysia with a 44% market share. Canada continues to dominate the food-grade soybean market. The outlook for 2002/03 is bright. Malaysia's intake of U.S. soybean is expected to increase by at least 10 percent. Malaysia continues to lead the world as the largest producer of palm oil and palm kernel oil. With the recovery from biological stress, CPO production is expected to increase to 12.6 MMT in 2002/03.

THAILAND, March 21, 2003 -- The following is an unofficial translation of a newspaper story that appeared in the Thai-language press on Mon., Feb 24, 2003.

THAILAND, March 21, 2003 -- Export prices changed slightly. Thai rices will become more attractive against Vietnamese rices.

EUROPEAN UNION, March 21, 2003 -- This report concerns the first of two scientific opinions that will serve as the basis for a derogation on the ban on intra species recycling for fish. This ban was introduced in the new animal by-products legislation.

TURKEY, March 21, 2003 -- Turkish oilseed production is expected to return to historical levels in 2003 after a significant production increase in MY2002. Turkey continues to import large amounts of oilseeds, meal and oils for its large crushing and refining industries as well as for the poultry industry. Imports of U.S. soybeans and products continue to increase, but are off to a slow start in the current marketing year due to high prices. In addition, political and economic uncertainty in the region could dampen U.S. exports.

YUGOSLAVIA (>01/2001), March 21, 2003 -- The agricultural sector is one of the most important sectors of the Yugoslav economy. After a decade of war, and political instability, Yugoslavia is a democracy in transition. Political, economic and social reforms are underway. Robust sustained economic growth has helped this transition period significantly and agricultural imports and exports are on a rising trend. Yugoslavia is poised to play a significant role in the regional agricultural market of Central Europe due to its excellent climate conditions and long history of agricultural research.

EUROPEAN UNION, March 21, 2003 -- This weekly report contains data on rice prices in the U.S., Thailand and the EU. It also lists current import duties and export subsidies in the EU. All information will be published as such in the weekly USDA publication "Rice Market News".

SAUDI ARABIA, March 24, 2003 -- The MOA announced mid February 2003 it decision to stop subsidizing locally grown barley from next production season. Next year's demand for imported barley is forecast to increase slightly. All aspects of wheat continue to be controlled by the Ministry of Agriculture's agency Grain Silos and Flour Mills Organization (GSFMO.) Government policy is for farmers to produce only enough wheat to meet domestic needs, currently about two million metric tons. Rice imports this year are forecast to increase by 9 percent from last year's level.

MALAYSIA, March 24, 2003 -- No summary available.

MALAYSIA, March 24, 2003 -- No summary available.

MALAYSIA, March 24, 2003 -- No summary available.

GERMANY, March 24, 2003 -- German fruit and vegetables producers receive support under EU programs. There are no additional national support programs specific to fruit and vegetable production available to German farmers. This report provides a summary of EU support measures for the fruit and vegetable sector.

MEXICO, March 25, 2003 -- $10.5 MILLION PROJECTS SALES REPORTED AT ANTAD 2003!*CHINESE EXPORT TO THE U.S. DISPLACE MEXICO’S NUMERICAL RANK*GOM MAY CALL ON CANADIAN AND U.S. AGRICULTURAL EXPERTS*PIPE DREAMS*“THE FARMLAND CAN’T STAND ANYMORE,” UPDATE*PATRON SEEKS RURAL DEVELOPMENT FUNDING*A CRUCIAL MOVE FOR MEXICAN TRADE POLICY*FARMING GROUPS ANXIOUS ABOUT NATIONAL AGRICULTURAL PACT*POOR WATER CONDITIONS MAY POSE AS FAVORABLE*NATIONAL AGRICULTURAL PACT NEGOTIATIONS WILL NOT BE EASY*BLAME IT ON THE INTERMEDIARIES*FARMING GROUPS WANT EMERGENCY FUNDS*MEXICO SHOULD RENEGOTIATE NAFTA*MEMBERS OF U.S. CONGRESS FLEX POLITICAL MUSCLES*MEXICAN FOOD EXPORTERS ARE AWARE OF NEW REGULATIONS*FLORES RALLIES MEXICAN TRUCKERS AND ACCUSES GOM*MEXICO IN SERIOUS WATER PROBLEMS*EDUCATION IS KEY FOR MEXICO’S RURAL DEVELOPMENT*RETALIATION AGAINST MEXICAN CONSUMER GOODS*FDA BIOTERRORISM LAW IMPLICATES FOREIGN AND DOMESTIC*INVESTORS PLACE THEIR TRUST IN MEXICO

INDIA, March 26, 2003 -- *What ails Bt cotton?*, *WTO talks should address India's concern: Commerce Minister*, *Zero tariffs are counterproductive: EU Commissioner Lamy*, *Hectic political lobbying for duty-free corn imports*, *Kelloggs exits biscuit business in India*, *India's edible oil import seen rising*, *Iraq war to impact Indian wheat exports*.

UNITED KINGDOM, March 26, 2003 -- The UK organic market has developed significantly since FAS/London last reported on this sector in March 2000. The organic category has expanded beyond its niche market origins, moved into the mainstream and is set to break the BPS 1 billion (US$ 1.6bn) barrier. Supermarket chains dominate retail sales of organic foods, accounting for an estimated 82 percent of sales by value. Organic product ranges now extend to a wide range of convenience and grocery items. This trend offers new opportunities for U.S. exporters, in addition to the continued demand for organic high value horticultural products from U.S. exporters.

CANADA, March 26, 2003 -- Border Security Tightens * Prime Minister Vows to Keep Border Crossings Open * Canada Remains Concerned with WTO Modalities Paper * WTO Review Misses the Mark Say Dairy Farmers * Agriweek Says CWB Most Vulnerable on Government Support * B.C. Salmon Farmers React to Restaurant Boycott * No Privatization for Ontario Liquor Sales Says CEO * Great Lake Ice Will Help Fruit Crops...and more!

CZECH REPUBLIC, March 21, 2003 -- Domestic production of beans continues to decline and the Czech Republic is increasingly dependent on imported beans. Price is still a decisive factor and most bean imports come from low cost suppliers such as Ethiopia and China. There will be no change in the import tariff for beans when the Czech Republic joins the European Union in May 2004.

TAIWAN, March 27, 2003 -- U.S. suppliers won the first 2003 rice tender for 5,000 tons. The second tender for 6,000 tons is expected in April. There are a total of ten tenders planned for 2003, for a total of 94,068 tons (brown rice basis).

AZERBAIJAN, REPUBLIC OF, March 27, 2003 -- U.S. poultry exports to Azerbaijan exhibited significant growth in 2002 due to favorable market conditions and the competitive advantage of U.S. poultry. The total number of importers of U.S. poultry has increased to nine. This has translated into growth in U.S. poultry exports as well as an increase in the diversity of brands and products exported. While competition remains fierce, 2003 should be another good year for U.S. poultry and product exports.

CHINA, PEOPLES REPUBLIC OF, March 26, 2003 -- Total imports of soybeans in MY02 are estimated at 16.25 MMT and forecast to increase to 16.5 MMT in MY03. Rising incomes are driving up demand for oils and feed for livestock. U.S. exporters will face stiff competition from South American soybeans. China's soybean production is estimated to be a record 16.3 MMT for the current marketing year and another record of 17 MMT is forecast for MY03. Also see Part 2 (CH3018) for trade tables.

CHINA, PEOPLES REPUBLIC OF, March 26, 2003 -- Trade tables for oilseeds and products based on Chinese customs data.

EUROPEAN UNION, March 27, 2003 -- Fresh fruits, vegetables and nuts imported from third countries into the EU are required to be checked for conformity with EU marketing standards for quality and labeling.

EUROPEAN UNION, March 27, 2003 -- Export refunds were set for the period March-May 2003. All export refunds for fresh produce decreased except for tomatoes. Export refunds for processed products remained unchanged.

SAUDI ARABIA, March 24, 2003 -- The Saudi Ministry of Agriculture issued a decree to impose a GMO labeling requirements on imported and locally produced feed grain, fruits, vegetables and other agricultural products commencing from early next year.

PHILIPPINES, March 24, 2003 -- The Philippine Department of Agriculture issued Memorandum Order No. 11 lifting the import ban on feeds, meat and by-products, milk and milk products, eggs and processed food containing the same originating from Germany and Netherlands after being assured of adequate measures implemented by the two countries to contain the earlier reported dioxin contamination. This order was issued on March 14, 2002 and is effective immediately.

PHILIPPINES, March 27, 2003 -- The Philippine Department of Agriculture (DA) has issued Memorandum Order No. 10 dated March 7, 2003 imposing a temporary ban on the importation of domestic and wild birds and their products from the Netherlands. The order took effect on March 13, 2003, in response to a reported outbreak of highly pathogenic Avian Influenza in the Netherlands.

PHILIPPINES, March 24, 2003 -- In reponse to reports of rampant vegetable smuggling, the Philippine Bureau of Plant Industry has issued Memorandum Order No. 18 imposing additional requirements for all Import Permit applications covering fresh fruits and vegetables.

EUROPEAN UNION, March 27, 2003 -- A new EU proposal was released that will harmonize all pesticide maximum residue levels and import tolerances at EU level. It will remove the trade problems stemming from the current situation whereby Member States can set their own national MRL's in the absence of Community MRL's. Of immediate concern to U.S. exporters, however, is the potential loss in 2004 of MRL's/import tolerances as a result of the EU ban of around 460 plant protection substances.

CANADA, March 25, 2003 -- Farm Cash Receipts Decline * Canada Says G7 Should Cut Subsidies * No Solution to Lumber Dispute * Canada Should Turn to WTO, NAFTA for Softwood Settlement Says Finance Minister * CWB Lowers Pool Return Outlooks for 2003/04 * Campaign Starts Against Genetically Modified Wheat * Proposed Changes to Canada Transportation Act May Affect Grain * Burgerland Suffering from Fast Food Discounting * Canadian Household Food Spending * Mardi-gras Themed Catfish Promotion * Canadian Food & Beverage Show a Success...and more!

NETHERLANDS, March 24, 2003 -- So far positively diagnosed farms are only found in the center of The Netherlands in a Control Area of about 1,000 square miles. One Control Area has been lifted.

JAPAN, March 28, 2003 -- The Government of Japan will begin full implementation of its new Package Recycling Law on April 1, 2003. The law will require manufacturers to pay all costs associated with collecting, sorting, transporting and recycling paper and plastic packaging. Under the new law, paper and plastic packaging and containers will need to be labeled for appropriate recycling. Importers will bear primary responsibility for labeling imported products, but U.S. manufacturers and exporters may be asked to help with the required labeling.

VIETNAM, March 28, 2003 -- Although Vietnam's cocoa production is currently very small, it is expected to expand significantly in the next 5-10 years. Pressured by declining coffee revenues, Vietnamese farmers are carefully studying the risks/benefits of expanding the cocoa area -- in place of or together -- with other tree crops.

THAILAND, March 28, 2003 -- Export prices declined in response to abundant supplies of second-crop paddy.

EUROPEAN UNION, March 28, 2003 -- This weekly report contains data on rice prices in the U.S., Thailand and the EU. It also lists current import duties and export subsidies in the EU. All information will be published as such in the weekly USDA publication "Rice Market News".

EUROPEAN UNION, March 28, 2003 -- EU Agriculture Commissioner Fischler and Trade Commissioner Lamy were highly critical of the second draft WTO modalities paper

EUROPEAN UNION, March 28, 2003 -- Denmark may legally maintain national limits in food for nitrates and nitrites that are stricter than the EU harmonized levels, following a Court of Justice ruling. The Court considered that a Member State may ask to maintain existing national provisions and derogate from a harmonization measure when it considers that the risk to public health is greater than found by the Community legislature at the time the harmonization measure was adopted.

AUSTRIA, March 28, 2003 -- Due to frost damage in the northern and northeastern parts of Austria, the winter rapeseed area planted in summer 2002 is reduced by up to 10%. The rapeseed harvest in 2002 was below average because of disease and pests. In contrast, growing conditions for soybeans in 2002 were good and the harvest was satisfactory. Soybean meal imports in 2001/2002 were strong and are expected to remain strong. The new Austrian government intends to promote renewable fuels made from oilseeds, which in the longer term might cause an increase in rapeseed and sunflower production.

MEXICO, March 28, 2003 -- BORDER CROSSING INFORMATION*NATIONAL AGRICULTURAL PACT STILL BEING DRAFTED*NATIONAL AGRICULTURAL PACT NEGOTIATIONS*25 BILLION PESOS ARE A GOOD SUBSTITUTE TO NAFTA RENEGOTIATIONS*RENEGOTIATION OF NAFTA’S AGRICULTURAL CHAPTER IN THE PACT*USDA BEEFS UP SECURITY ON INTERNATIONAL BORDERS*WTO AGRICULTURAL REFORM AT STALEMATE*FOX’S FISCAL REFORMS FOR THE CAMPO: STRATEGIC & OPPORTUNISTIC*POSSIBLE BACKLASH BY U.S. CONSUMERS?*EXPERTS DISCARD U.S. BAN ON MEXICAN AGRICULTURAL EXPORTS*GOM MONITORS IMPACT OF NEW FDA BIOTERRORISM LAW*MEXICAN BUSINESS LEADERS FEAR POSSIBLE U.S. SANCTIONS*CORPORATE GROUPS STAY CONFIDENT*MEXICAN COMPANIES NOT HAPPY ABOUT FDA BIOTERRORISM LAWS*“COMMERCIAL TRADE MUST REMAIN U.S. PRIORITY”*LACK OF URBANIZATION CREATES MEXICAN EXODUS TO THE U.S.

MEXICO, March 28, 2003 -- On March 20, 2003, the Secretariat of Economy (SE) published in the Diario Oficial (Federal Register) the criteria for issuing import permits for U.S. high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) under certain H.T.S categories.

BELGIUM-LUXEMBOURG, March 26, 2003 -- BSE monitoring system results for 2002.

BOSNIA-HERCEGOVINA, March 27, 2003 -- As of January 2003, Bosnia-Herzegovina has a new import regime for live animals, animal genetics, seeds, planting material, and pesticides. Under the new rules, the national level Ministry of Foreign Trade and Economic Relations (MOFTER) issues the final import permits. Previously, import permits were issued by an ‘entity' ministry of agriculture. The result is that the import process is encumbered by yet another layer of bureaucracy.

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