Planting of wheat and barley crops is expected to occur soon. Government support is likely a factor in the anticipated above-average area to be planted. Weather conditions may aid crop development, with high precipitation expected during the last part of the year.

Cereal imports are forecast to be slightly higher than usual. Paddy production, however, is expected to be lower than average. Further details on the situation are available from the GIEWS Country Brief, which provides more information on the forecast and its implications.