AgraFood Latin America

摘要

Trade news: Free trade talks between the US and Panama remain deadlocked over farm trade issues, Colombian farm exports surged in 2005. Grains and oilseeds: Brazil's feed industry continues to grow rapidly. Meanwhile, Cuba is to import more corn fromthe US this year, Argentina is pushing ahead with plans to produce biodiesel. Meat and Poultry: Argentina and Paraguay both saw a sharp rise in meat exports last year Meanwhile, Argentina is to resume imports of Brazilian pork. Dairy: Venezuelan milk output rose sharply in 2005. Argentine producers are complaining that high taxes will hit exports this year. Sugar and ethanol: High world sugar prices are threatening to undermine Brazil's efforts to maintain ethanol supplies. Meanwhile, Barbados is looking at alternative uses for its sugarcane. Fruit and vegetables: Police have raided Brazilian citrus processors as part of an anti-cartel operation. Chilean apple exporters are preparing for a drop in sales to the EU. Food and drink: Brazilian food exporters are forecasting another year of strong sales, Mexico and the US have resolved a dispute over tequila exports. Retail: Brazilian supermarket sales failed to reach expectations in 2005, Argentinian retailers are investing strongly as food sales continue to rise.