AgraFood Latin America

摘要

Trade news: The EU has lifted restrictions on rgentine beef. But China has once again suspended imports of Brazilian soy. Political: Venezuela is moving ahead with a controversial land reform programme. Grains and oilseeds: Argentina and Brazil are stepping up efforts to combat soy rust. Brazilian corn exports are expected to fall in 2005. Meat and Poultry: Mexican livestock producers are concerned about new BSE outbreaks in Canada. Uruguayan beef exports enjoyed a record year in 2004. Dairy: Brazilhas transformed itself into a net exporter of dairy products, while Argentina's dairy sector is also performing well. Sugar and ethanol: Cuba has lowered its forecasts for this year's sugar harvest. Brazilian ethanol exports tripled in 2004. Fruit and vegetables: Mexico is to lift import tariffs on some US apples. Meanwhile, Brazilian apple exports are expected to fall in 2005. Coffee: Central American coffee growers are beginning to benefit from recent rises in world prices. Brazil is expecting to export less coffee in 2005. Food and drink: Chile's food industry enjoyed a year of bumper sales both at home and abroad.