European agriculture faces structural drought and declining crop yields

Agricultural sectors in Europe are facing significant challenges due to climate-driven stressors. Confagricoltura Cuneo has warned that drought and prolonged heat are no longer exceptional events but structural issues that require strategic water management, new infrastructure like reservoirs, and the adoption of more resilient crop varieties.

These environmental shifts are directly impacting food production. Projections from the World Apple and Pear Association indicate that the 2026 EU apple harvest is expected to fall below 10 million tonnes, marking a nine-year low. This represents a 16% decrease from the previous season.

Specific regional impacts include a 30% production drop in Poland due to frosts and a 24% decline in France caused by pathogens and aphids. While Italy has shown more stability with only a 2% decrease, the overall trend highlights the growing pressure on European agricultural competitiveness and supply chains.