North Korea hit hard by drought

Crop production in North Korea appears to have been severely damaged by the drought. These include maize, rice, potatoes and soybeans. This threatens the food supply for a large part of the population. So says the FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization). 

Rainfall in the main growing areas is currently well below the long-term average. "So far the rainfall has remained below the level of 2001. In that year grain production fell to only 2 million tons. That already put the food supply for a large part of the population at risk," says Vincent. Martin, FAO Representative in China and North Korea. 

Shortages during current season
The drought also affected the early crop harvest, which took place in June. According to various forecasts by the FAO, production has fallen by more than 30% compared to 2016. In 2016, 450.000 tons were harvested, but last year it was only 310.000 tons.

Despite the fact that this harvest only accounts for 10% of the total annual crop production, these crops are an important source of food in the period from May to September.

Rain won't improve much
Although some rain has fallen in the past month, it is still too late to allow normal crop development. The lack of rain could seriously affect key production areas, including South and North Pyongan, South and North Hwanghae and Nampo City provinces, which normally account for nearly two-thirds of total production.

Intervention is necessary
"Immediate interventions are needed to support North Korean farmers and to prevent unwanted behavior by the most vulnerable (children and the elderly), including reducing daily food intake," explains Martin. "It is important that farmers now receive appropriate and timely agricultural assistance, including equipment and machinery."

In addition, the report shows the importance of starting rehabilitation and upgrading irrigation plans to reduce water webs. The availability of water must also be increased in this way.

In addition, an increase in food imports, commercial or through food aid, is necessary over the next 3 months. In this way it is hoped that the food supply in the country can be maintained. 

Kimberly Baker

Kimberly Bakker is an all-round editor at Boerenbusiness. She also has an eye for the social media channels of Boerenbusiness.

k.baker @boerenbusiness. Nl

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