Agricultural markets face shifts in food spending, grain exports, and harvests

Agricultural and food markets are experiencing significant shifts across Europe and Russia. In Sweden, statistics from SCB show that food and beverage sales increased by 7.1 percent in 2025, reaching 430 billion SEK, despite rising prices. Per capita spending rose by 2,631 SEK, with notable increases in dairy, meat, and fruit purchases.

In the grain sector, Russia's wheat exports saw a sharp decline in September, dropping nearly 75 percent compared to the previous year. This decrease is attributed to disruptions in Black Sea ports, such as Novorossijsk and Tuapse, due to drone attacks, alongside logistical issues and weakened demand. In response, the Russian government has retroactively abolished export duties on wheat, barley, and corn through the end of the year.

European grain harvests are also under pressure. The EU Commission estimates the total grain harvest will be 4.4 percent below the five-year average. Droughts in major organic producing nations like France, Spain, and Italy are expected to drive up prices for organic grain and feed during the winter.

In the livestock sector, Danish company Danbox Agro is entering the Swedish market with modular pig housing solutions designed to lower investment costs and facilitate easier production expansions.