Vasile Bumacov: Moldova will not export corn this year

Moldova will not export corn this year, stated Minister of Agriculture and Food Industry Vasile Bumacov, quoted by Info-Prim Neo. According to the Minister, almost 2/3 of the corn was lost to the high temperatures in June and July. “We relied on the corn, but, unfortunately, what happened in June and July will cause difficulties. The worst situations are in the south and center. Last year we had 1,400,000 tons, part of which we exported, and used a great part as fodder. We will not export this year, because all we have will be used towards local needs”, said the Minister. Vasile Bumacov mentioned that there will also be a problem with corn for sowing, thus we are negotiating with different partners, in order to obtain seed material for the next year. This situation will inevitably lead to price increases. Vasile Bumacov added that, due to this year’s drought, the yields for sunflower and sugar beet will also be poorer. Head of the “Porumbeni” Phytotechny Institute Vasile Pojoga told Info-Prim Neo that, due to the high temperatures, there was neither corn grown, nor pollination. “The situation is very bad, because the drought has completely affected growth and pollination, made the pollen more sterile, i.e. there is corn on the cob, but it is not dense. The actual development range for corn is between 10 and 30 degrees Celsius. It does not grow under 10°C and over 30°C. Whereas, we had mornings with 38°C”, said Vasile Pojoga. The head of the Institute said that there are 2 more tons in stock, which will be used for seeds, but some of the farmers will have to import seeds.