Italian agricultural sectors face crisis as wheat and olive oil prices drop

Italian agricultural sectors are facing significant economic distress due to falling commodity prices and rising production costs. In the durum wheat sector, Cia-Agricoltori Italiani has issued an alarm following a price collapse at the Foggia commodity exchange, where prices dropped by an additional 30 euros per ton. Producers fear speculative attacks and warn that without government intervention, such as strengthening supply chain contracts or restoring the National Single Commission (CUN), many farms may abandon cereal production entirely.

Simultaneously, the olive oil industry is struggling with high inventory levels and low market prices. Approximately 186,000 tons of oil remain in storage, representing nearly two-thirds of the last production cycle. Current market prices are reportedly below 4.50 euros per liter, while operators suggest a minimum of 7.50 to 8.50 euros is required to cover costs. Regions such as Puglia and Calabria, which account for over half of national production, are calling for a state of crisis. In response, the Ministry of Agriculture is developing a revitalization plan for the olive oil supply chain, supported by 500 million euros in resources.