Global grain and potato markets face volatility and supply shifts

Cereal markets in Europe and the United States have experienced mixed developments, with wheat and corn prices seeing recent recoveries. European wheat prices on Euronext briefly dipped below 220 €/ton before rebounding, supported by investor short-covering and a weaker euro against the dollar. Corn followed a similar upward trend. Conversely, rapeseed prices declined due to pressure from the energy sector and weakness in vegetable oil markets, including soybean and palm oil.

In the potato market, the 2026/27 season is expected to see lower production due to declining harvests in Europe and North America. European harvests are estimated to be 15% to 25% lower than the previous year. Significant production drops are noted in Belgium, where cultivated areas and yields have decreased, and in France, where quality and size concerns persist. In Spain, drought and high temperatures have impacted yields, while German producer prices have more than doubled compared to last year. In the United States, production losses are particularly pronounced in Idaho, where yields are estimated to be 20% to 25% lower.