Copa-Cogeca reports severe EU agricultural damage from heatwaves

Agricultural organizations Copa and Cogeca have presented an assessment of the damage caused by summer heatwaves to the European Commission. Representatives reported widespread deterioration of agricultural conditions across the EU, with the most severe impacts observed in southern, central, and western Europe.

Specific losses include maize production dropping by 50% to 70% in Slovenia and approximately 40% in France, while Italy reported losses between 20% and 25%. In areas without irrigation, maize losses have reached 70%. Other affected crops include fodder, potatoes, sugar beets, and vegetables, alongside a 10% to 15% decline in milk production in certain regions. Countries reporting severe consequences include Slovenia, Austria, France, Italy, Spain, Hungary, Germany, Croatia, Czechia, Ireland, and Romania.

In addition to climate-driven damage, the organizations warned that the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) faces risks of weakening. They argued that agriculture must be treated as a strategic asset for European autonomy and food security, noting that global powers like the United States, China, and Russia are increasingly prioritizing agricultural security in their national strategies. The issue is expected to be on the agenda for the upcoming EU Agriculture Ministers meeting in Dublin.