AgraFood Latin America

摘要

Trade news: Brazil's commitment to the idea of an Americas-wide free trade pact has been called into question. Meanwhile, the US has made little progress in talks for a deal with three Andean nations. Grains and oilseeds: Argentina is strengthening its position as the world's leading exporter of vegetable oils. Brazilian farmers could reduce soy plantings in 2005/06. Brazil is setting ambitious targets for biodiesel production. Meat and Poultry: Mexico aims to become a major player on world poultry markets. Brazil fears its processed beef could be shut out of the US market, while the Argentinian beef sector is warning of a slowdown in exports. Dairy: Brazilian dairies are producing more cheese for export. Mexico has lifted a ban on Brazilian powdered milk, while Chile aims to ship more cheese to the US.. Sugar and ethanol: Argentine mills have signed an agreement to export sugar surpluses in 2005/06. Colombian sugar exports could fall as more cane is used to make fuel ethanol. Fruit and vegetables:El Salvador is exporting more frozen fruits, while Peru has seen a drop in asparagus sales. Brazil expects orange output to rise steadily over the next decade. Coffee: Peru has been told to seek out new buyers as it builds a reputation as a high qualitycoffee producer. Brazilian researchers are developing two new varieties of genetically-modified coffee. Food and drink: Nestle has been order to find a buyer for Brazilian chocolate company Garoto, while Unilever has been told to sell the Gourmet mayonnaise brand.