(a)Despite an easing of the drought conditions with the onset of the first summer rains in mid-June, a significant portion of the first crop that supplies part of the stocks used by the public distribution system is likely to be lost. Early reports from the Government indicate that out of an expected output of 400,000 tons of cereals, the yield for the first crop is estimated to be only 170,000 tons.
(b)A joint FAO/WFP Crop and Food Supply Assessment Mission was undertaken from 24 June to 3 July. The final report will be available in late July. The maize crop is likely to be significantly affected by drought conditions, while the transplantation of paddy (rice) has in general proceeded normally, according to the Ministry of Agriculture. However, in parts of the north and west of the country, some delays were caused by insufficient irrigation. Refilling of dry reservoirs, lakes and streams and the even distribution of rainfall in July and August will be crucial to ensure a favourable harvest.
(c)The Public Distribution System (PDS) is expected to distribute the last of the ROK loan food by mid- July. After that, food distribution at the rate of 150 grams per person per day will be carried out, using the first crop harvest, supplemented by limited commercial imports. In many areas, especially those with little arable land, the harvest from the first crop will not be sufficient and food stocks are expected to be scarce in August. WFP is very concerned for the people who do not receive WFP assistance - which is most of the adult population.
(d)WFP food pipeline remains sufficient to cover expected food requirements until September. However, a shortfall of cereals expected for October may force WFP to scale back distributions in order to maintain some food stocks for the last quarter of the year.
(e)Overall local food production (corn soy milk blend, biscuits, rice milk blend and cereal milk blend)
amounted in June to 2,077 tons. The installation of the first noodle factory started in Sinuiju and is expected to become operational by mid-July. Preparatory work has begun in four other locations for installation between July and September.
