Basque agriculture faces crisis from heat and drought

Basque agriculture is facing a severe crisis due to the simultaneous impact of extreme heat and drought. Agroseguro has reported that this August represents one of the most unusual months in the history of agricultural insurance. In southern Basque Country, approximately 3,230 hectares of crops have been damaged, with the highest impact recorded in Navarre.

Livestock farmers are currently utilizing feed reserves intended for winter, and conditions are expected to worsen in the coming months. Amaia Barredo, the Basque Minister of Food, Agriculture, Rural Development, and Fisheries, acknowledged the difficulty of the situation but noted that paths toward collective feed purchasing are being explored.

Agricultural unions, including UAGK, EHNE, and ENBA, have criticized the regional government for delays in convening the Feed Table. Additionally, associations such as Ataca have called for the designation of drought zones in Araba, Bizkaia, and Gipuzkoa, warning that the crisis will reduce meat, dairy, and general agricultural production. Farmers also cited external pressures, including the impact of international conflicts on fuel and fertilizer prices, and trade agreements that allow products to enter the market without meeting local quality standards.