Primera season production is now underway in all areas of the country

Primera season planting has now begun in virtually all areas of the country, with reports indicating good growth status for most crops. The harvest period for this season is projected to take place between August and September, when the lean season ends.

White maize prices have decreased considerably compared to last year, but are still above average. The price of black beans, however, has slightly increased, in line with seasonal trends.

The canícula this year is expected to begin in mid-July, with the potential to affect yields of first-cycle crops. In addition, there is a 50 percent likelihood that the El Niño phenomenon, projected to occur during the last half of the year, could present a risk to second production cycle crops, as a result of reduced rainfall.