Brasília, 12 (Agência Brasil - ABr) - The president of the Confederation of Agriculture of Brazil (CNA), Antônio de Salvo, launched yesterday the first monthly publication of agricultural indicators. According to the publication, although perspectives for growth this year were less favorable than last year, raw meat export revenue (in dollars) rose 36%, compared to 2001. The exchange rate was one of the main reasons for the spike.

The CNA estimates that this year total growth will be 4% for the sector as a whole. Estimates are that beef exports will rise 4.4%, with almost 5.7 million tons sold. (AB)