French corn harvest to fall 35% to 9m tonnes in 2026, EU producers say
This digest was compiled by AI from multiple sources — links to the originals are below.
EU producers forecast that France's corn harvest will fall 35% to 9 million tonnes in 2026, the lowest since 1980, as drought and record heat hit European crops. Italy and Spain are also reporting lower vegetable and milk output, with Italian milk production down about 20%. EU governments are pledging emergency aid, including €145 million from France.
Key Facts
- France's corn harvest is projected to fall to 9 million tonnes in 2026, a 35% drop and the lowest since 1980.
- Drought has affected about 60% of agricultural land in Italy and cut milk production by around 20%.
- Spain's Castile and León grain harvest was 35% below last year, Madrid region 49% and Andalusia 24%.
- Spain's national federation of winemakers forecasts a 20% fall in 2026 wine production.
- France has allocated €145 million in immediate aid for farmers.
France's Corn and Vegetable Losses
French corn production is projected to fall 35% year-on-year to 9 million tonnes in 2026, the lowest since 1980. Vegetable harvests were also down, with zucchini cut 25%, lettuce 35%, peas 40%, broccoli 60% and artichokes between 50% and 100%. Hay production for winter livestock feed fell about 30% below the 1989–2018 average, according to France's agricultural statistics service.
Italy and Spain Crop Damage
Moderate to severe drought affected about 60% of Italy's agricultural land. Italian milk production fell by approximately 20%. Total damage to Italy's agricultural sector surpassed €3 billion. In Spain's Castile and León region, grain output was 35% below last year, with Madrid down 49% and Andalusia down 24%. Spain's national federation of winemakers forecasts a 20% drop in 2026 wine output.
EU Government Response
EU governments have pledged significant support packages for agriculture. French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu announced €145 million in immediate aid. Lecornu also promised structural support measures and investments in the 2027 budget.
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French corn harvest to fall 35% to 9m tonnes in 2026, EU producers say
