The average yield for the maize harvest was estimated at 103 quintals per hectare (1 metric quintal = 100 kgs), according to the estimates of the Arvalis Institute of Plant Research. This is a good, even very good, yield, 15% higher than last year.
Overall, there has been a lack of rainfall but the rains have arrived at key moments, allowing for good yields to be produced, even on non-irrigated land. “The progress made in genetics has played an important part”, explained Gilles Espagnol, a maize specialist at Arvalis - Plant Research Institute. The sector has made significant progress in the field of plant selection, particularly with regard to their tolerance to water stress.
These performances should delight the maize (corn) producers, but they have to face up to “price pressure”, explained the General Association of Maize Producers (AGPM). There have been record harvests in South America, with large quantities now being available for export. The yields have also been very good in the United States. Consequently, there is fierce competition on the world market.
“The drop in prices will eat up almost all of the profits gained from increased yields”, concluded Matthieu Çaldumbide. We can, therefore, expect an increase in the average turnover of around 5%, providing that prices do not drop any further.
The maize producers are thus “for the fourth consecutive year in a difficult financial situation”, insists Anne-Claire Vial. This year, once again we have “tonnes of maize produced without receiving decent prices”.
