The first estimate of Brazil's production of grains, cereals, and oilseeds for the 2003/2004 harvest varies between 124.4 and 127.7 million tons. An increase of between 1.5% and 4.2%, in comparison with the 2002/2003 harvest. The outstanding performer is soybeans, which could attain 58 million tons.

According to the Minister of Agriculture, Livestock, and Supply, Roberto Rodrigues, these are conservative estimates. "We are considering average climatic conditions. If climatic conditions improve, the estimates may be even better," he said.

Estimates for areas under cultivation indicate growth of between 3% and 5.4%, representing an additional 1.3 to 2.4 million hectares, compared with past harvests.

According to the Minister, the production of transgenic soybeans should amount to around 13-14% of total production. Rio Grande do Sul is responsible for 80% of transgenic soybean cultivation. (DAS)