The deputy minister predicted that the deficit of four million tons could only be covered in the 2012 harvest season.Jakarta (ANTARA News) - Deputy Agriculture Minister Rusman Heriawan said the country`s rice production in 2011 is likely to reach only 66 million tons which would be below the target figure of 70 million tons.
"A third forecast puts the figure at 65 million tons. If in the coming two months (November-December) improvements can be made, the figure could be 66 million tons. This means we will still miss our target by 4 million tons," Rusman said here on Friday.
He said it was at present difficult to say that the target would be met because of the changed planting pattern as a result of climate change.
The deputy minister predicted that the deficit of four million tons could only be covered in the 2012 harvest season. "The missing four million tons are likely to be harvested in 2012," he added.
He said the target of 74 million tons next year could be achieved because of the change in the planting pattern. "I have calculated that in 2012 we will see a production increase, perhaps an extraordinary one," he said.
The deputy minister said that in order to increase rice production, rainfall should be more accurately anticipated, irrigation systems must be improved and farmers should use water-resistant seeds.(*)
Editor: Heru Purwanto
Copyright © ANTARA 2011
