The Agricultural Situation in Western Europe: Review of 1971 and Outlook for 1972

Agricultural output in Western Europe continued at a high level in 1971. Red meat output increased, milk output was constant, and grain output reached a new record. Record grain crops in the EC in 1971 resulted in another disposal problem. U.S. agricultural exports to Western Europe increased in 1970/71. Commodity categories which increased in importance were oilseeds, wheat and flour, protein meals, tobacco, and fruits and vegetables. EC enlargement negotiations were completed in January 1972, when the United Kingdom, Ireland, Denmark, and Norway signed the treaties for accession. A monetary crisis has continued in Western Europe, where there are now 4 price zones. The "devaluation" of the U.S. dollar may have a positive effect on some U.S. agricultural exports to Western Europe.