Blue poppy cultivation expands in Vojvodina

Blue poppy production is increasing in the Vojvodina region of Serbia as farmers seek more profitable alternatives to traditional crops like wheat. Current estimates suggest poppy cultivation covers between 5,000 and 6,000 hectares, with a significant portion of the harvest being exported to Austria and Germany.

Producer and exporter Nenad Gostović reports that he organizes production on approximately 2,500 hectares through cooperatives. The crop offers stable income with lower investment requirements and better drought resistance compared to other crops, as it is sown in autumn and utilizes winter moisture. Current purchase prices range from 190 to 200 dinars per kilogram, with yields between 700 and 1,300 kilograms per hectare.

While interest among farmers is growing, the expansion of cultivation areas is being managed to align with market demand. On a broader scale, Europe cultivates approximately 100,000 hectares of poppy, with the Czech Republic being the largest producer, accounting for about 40,000 hectares and significantly influencing international market prices.