Grain harvest 2018 in Kazakhstan amounted to 20 million tons
In mid-February of this year, the Statistics Committee of Kazakhstan published data on the 2018 harvest. Thus, in 2018, 20.28 million tons of cereals and legumes were harvested, which is 1.5% less than in 2017.
However, last year we observed a slight increase in yield. Thus, in 2018, the yield was 1.35 t/ha, whereas a year earlier, the yield indicator was 1.34 t/ha.
In addition, in 2018 wheat production decreased by 900,000 tons and amounted to 13.9 million tons, while the USDA predicted a harvest of 15 million tons.
It should be added that in 2018, the collection of barley reached a historic maximum and amounted to nearly 4 million tons, whereas a year earlier it was collected 3.3 million tons. The contribution to the increase of barley production was increased acreage, while the yield of this crop has decreased from 1.6 t/ha to 1.58 t/ha.
Kazakhstan is one of the world’s largest grain producers, and in 2018, the country achieved a high grain harvest. The total harvest volume reached 20 million tons, which is 3.3% higher than the previous year. Such success can significantly impact the economy of Kazakhstan and the global grain market, strengthening the country’s position as a major grain exporter. However, the increase in production volumes may lead to oversaturation of the global grain market, which, in turn, may lead to a decrease in grain prices. It is also necessary to consider possible risks associated with changes in weather conditions and the global economy, which may affect grain production and exports in Kazakhstan.