The quality of the special crops is generally average, with the exception of the lentil crop, which is slightly lower than average, and the chick pea crop which is extremely variable, ranging from poor to good. Average prices of dry peas and buckwheat are forecast to be near 1998-99 levels, but average prices of lentils, dry beans, chick peas, mustard seed, canary seed and sunflower seed are expected to be lower. Decreased world production is expected to result in increased exports of feed peas to Europe and food peas to Asia and Latin America. Domestic consumption, mainly for livestock feed, is forecast to increase due to greater acceptance of dry peas for livestock feed, combined with good supply and competitive prices. The average price over all types, grades and markets is forecast to be similar to 1998-99.
Domestic use is forecast to increase.
The larger supply and carry-out stocks are expected to pressure prices downward, however this is expected to be mostly offset by strong demand. Lower US pinto and black bean production is expected to be offset by increased white pea bean production. Increased world dry bean production is expected to pressure prices downward. Chick Peas Production quadrupled to 197,000 t, in line with increased harvested area. Late seeding and cool and relatively wet summer reduced the quality of the crop.