Polish agricultural sector faces rapeseed shortages and new procurement funding

The Polish agricultural sector is facing significant challenges regarding rapeseed production and grain procurement. Industry representatives are calling for the European Union's 2028–2034 financial perspective to better align the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) with market needs and climate-energy policies, particularly biofuel production.

Adam Stępień, Director General of the Polish Oil Producers Association, noted that rapeseed cultivation is under pressure due to factors like drought. Current estimates suggest rapeseed sowing area has decreased by 93,000 hectares compared to last year, with expected harvests between 2.8 and 3.2 million tons, falling short of national processing capacities exceeding 4.1 million tons.

To support farmers during the current harvest, the National Food Group (Krajowa Grupa Spożywcza) has provided Elewarr with an additional 120 million PLN to increase the procurement of crops, primarily wheat and rapeseed. Minister of Agriculture Stefan Krajewski stated that this funding aims to ensure farmers have a stable and reliable market for their yields during periods of high supply and lower-than-expected harvests.