Normal to above-normal rains have been reported for cereal and bean crops during the first season of 1999/2000. Harvesting began in August in main producing areas in the west (Santa Rosa de Copán) and centre-east (Danli). Despite favourable rains, maize output from the first season crop (main) is expected to be a low 400 000 tonnes, close to last year's crop which was severely affected by hurricane "Mitch". This is attributed largely to the unattractive producer prices. Paddy output is also anticipated to be low due to reduced planting caused by competition of low-priced imports and donations. In important grain areas it is expected that producers are likely to switch to more profitable crops such as sugar cane and tobacco. Production of beans from the first season crop, which accounts for only 30 percent of the annual output, is expected to be average. Rehabilitation and food assistance continues to be provided to the hurricane affected population.