IGC: 07-08 World Grain Output 1.662 Billion Tons, +3.1 Million Tons vs Feb

The International Grains Council Friday forecast the 2007-08 world grain crop at 1.662 billion tons, a rise of 3.1 million tons from IGC's February forecast and up 5.7% on the year.

"Growing conditions in the northern hemisphere have been reasonable so far and, with average weather from now on, yields should increase in several key producers," said IGC.

Global wheat output was forecast at 646 million tons, which is up 42 million tons from 2007-08, but unchanged from an IGC a month ago. E.U. wheat output will rise by 15.4% in 2008-09 to 138.4 million tons.

IGC added that global 2008-09 barley output would be up 10% on the year at 148 million tons.