Steep Drop in U.S. Chickpeas

WASHINGTON - Mar 31/08 - SNS -- Chickpea seedings in the United States will experience a steep drop this year if growers follow through on their plans, according to this year's USDA seeding intentions estimates.

Expected area planted for all chickpeas is 98,500 acres, down 22% from last year and 28% lower than 2006. A smaller harvest should improve North American domestic demand for Mexican origin chickpeas, helped by expectations that Canada will also reduce kabuli-type chickpea seedings this year.

Small chickpea area, at 15,400 acres, is 39% higher than 2007 but 11% lower than 2006. Large chickpea acreage is expected to be 27% less than last year and 30% lower than 2006. Small chickpeas are defined as peas that will pass through a 20/64 inch round hole screen. Otherwise, the USDA does not provide information on seeded area by class.

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