Belgium agriculture faces crisis from drought and heat

Prolonged high temperatures and drought in Belgium are causing significant losses across the agricultural sector. Industry representatives have described the situation as “worrying” and, for certain products, a “disaster.”

Potato production is particularly hard hit; current yield losses are estimated at 30%, with the potential to reach 50% if sufficient rainfall does not occur in the coming weeks. Additionally, the lack of water is preventing potatoes from reaching optimal size.

The livestock sector is also facing severe pressure. Grain production losses are driving concerns over rising animal feed costs. Due to dried-out pastures, cattle are already consuming winter feed reserves. Because the drought affects much of Europe, sourcing alternative feed from other countries is limited. Some farmers have begun sending livestock to slaughter to avoid being unable to feed their herds through the winter. Furthermore, heat stress has led to increased mortality rates in poultry, decreased egg production, and a 30% to 40% drop in milk yields.