Messenia agricultural producers report improved yields amid rising costs

Agricultural producers in Messenia, Greece, report optimistic outlooks regarding the volume and quality of recent harvests, though economic and environmental challenges persist.

Fig harvesting is well underway, with some early crops already exceeding 50% completion. Producers attribute the improved quality and quantity compared to last year to beneficial spring rains. However, the final outcome remains dependent on upcoming weather conditions, as high temperatures could pose risks to certain crops. Farmers also face rising production costs driven by high fuel prices and a shortage of agricultural laborers.

In the olive oil sector, western Messenia expects increased production compared to the previous period. Despite this positive volume, producers expressed concern over low market prices, which some estimate for extra virgin oil at approximately €3.50 per kilo—a level considered below production costs. Giorgos Kokkinos, president of the Nileas Agricultural Cooperative, noted that global supply increases and investments in mechanized groves are contributing to these price pressures.

Additionally, farmers are monitoring biological threats, including olive fruit fly populations and fungal issues like cercospora and alternaria. While current pest levels are manageable, authorities warn that upcoming rainfall could alter these conditions.