France heatwave slashes livestock deaths, dairy output and pepper market

A severe heatwave in France, with temperatures reaching 40 °C, has caused widespread agricultural damage. Animal deaths total around 9,127 tonnes, mainly poultry, with significant losses reported for pigs (up to 30 % in some farms). The French government temporarily allowed on‑site burial of dead livestock under strict conditions. Dairy production has fallen between 10 % and 30 % as cows reduce milk yield to cope with the heat, while feed costs rise. Crop yields are also hit: wheat and corn harvests are expected below average, and vegetable and fruit production has fallen up to 50 % in the hardest‑hit areas.

The heat has rippled across Europe’s bell‑pepper market. In France, growers report lower yields, root damage, and faster fruit ripening, leading to price pressure. Competition from Dutch, Belgian and German producers, who can offer peppers at roughly €1.50 kg versus €2.50 kg for French fruit, further squeezes French growers. Prices surged during the heatwave but are now normalising as supplies improve. Additional challenges include aphid infestations and a shift toward organic substrates and rootstocks to boost resilience. The combined livestock, dairy, crop and market impacts underline the broad economic strain caused by the extreme weather.