Australian Wheat Production Expected to Fall by 26% Due to Drought and Middle East Conflict

Sydney, June 2 (CNA) - The Australian government reported today that wheat production this season is expected to fall by more than a quarter as farmers face drought conditions and soaring fuel and fertilizer prices due to the conflict in the Middle East. According to AFP, Australia is a major global wheat exporter. Based on the Department of Agriculture's quarterly assessment, this season's harvest is expected to drop by 26% from last year to 26.7 million metric tons. Australian wheat is planted in winter, and winter in the Southern Hemisphere has just begun. Most Australian wheat is exported to Asia and the Middle East. The government report states that wheat production is expected to be 23% below the 5-year average and 8% below the 10-year average. According to the report, farmers plan to reduce wheat planting area by 12%, mainly due to lower profitability compared to other crops and 'very dry' conditions in the northern regions. The report warns: 'If the conflict in the Middle East continues, input costs are likely to remain high for a long period, which could further compress production.' The report also noted that parts of Western Australia and South Australia have reported a surge in mouse populations, and 'the Australian chemical regulator has conditionally approved emergency permits for the use of enhanced mouse bait, and farmers are currently actively baiting to control the infestation.'