Economy Ministry set out grain yield forecast for 2020

The Ministry for Development of Economy, Trade and Agriculture of Ukraine announced its projections for the grain harvest in the country in 2020. There are several variants, but the most feasible one was set in the range of 65-68 mln t.

"There is certainly a risk of crop failure. Drought is an extremely negative factor. Fortunately, precipitation has come and the situation is turning for the better. This year we are projecting several scenarios, the most realistic one suggests 65-68 mln t of the grain harvest," stated Igor Petrashko, Minister for Economic Development, Trade and Agriculture of Ukraine.

The minister alleged that a forecast figure is lower from last year's indicator. However, he stressed that these are still significant amounts allowing Ukraine to ensure food security and retain its status of a major exporter.

As a reminder, the drought caused severe crop damages in Odesa region — at least 310 thou. ha as of May 14, 2020.