Jordan Remains Net Grain Importer

WASHINGTON - Oct 8/06 - SNS -- Jordan's status as a net grain importer, one which covers more than half its needs with imports, will remain intact for the foreseeable future, according to the U.S. agricultural attache for the country.

Rainfall this year has been below average, worsening the country's ability to met a greater share of its grain needs. Output of wheat and barley was below their average. Jordan produces only 7% of its wheat consumption and only 5% of its barley consumption.

Wheat imports for 2006-07 are expected to reach 910,000 MT of which at least 32,000 MT will be imported from the U.S. under the PL 480 Title I program. High U.S. wheat prices contribute to Jordan's reliance on suppliers from the Black Sea basin for soft wheat and Syrian hard wheat, even thought the resultant bread is of inferior quality.

Jordan's barley imports are expected to reach 700,00 MT, with none coming from the U.S. This is due to the availability of other competitive suppliers on one hand and the lower shipment costs from suppliers in the region.

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