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France News Today

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Saturday, November 23, 2024

France Faces Historic Wheat Harvest Decline

Published: 2024-08-09

France is facing one of its weakest wheat harvests in 40 years, with production expected to drop by nearly 24% compared to the average of the past five years.

This significant decline is attributed to an unusually wet winter and lack of sunlight, which have severely impacted wheat yields.

The Ministry of Agriculture reports that the harvest is estimated at around 26.3 million tonnes, marking a concerning low since 1987. Despite the drop, experts suggest that the price of bread is unlikely to rise significantly, as wheat and flour costs constitute only a small portion of the overall price.

However, French farmers are expected to face financial losses, with some potentially losing between 30,000 to 50,000 euros.

The reduced harvest will primarily affect France's export surplus, rather than domestic supply, as the country produces twice the wheat it consumes.

Calls for government and EU support are growing as farmers brace for economic challenges.