It' s becoming the leading producing area in North America. Plantings probably will be down a third this spring because of low prices. Black bean production is stabilizing. Plantings probably will be lower this spring because of the big carry-in after great crops in Ontario and Michigan. Pinto stocks are relatively tight and although pinto prices are low, they have the best chance of recovery.
Mexican drought continues.
Although its 2000 bean production may increase from last year, Mexico still should be a substantial importer of blacks and pintos.