Drought effects on German grain output limited, but farmers struggling

German grain production is expected to come in slightly below average at 41.9 million metric tons following extended drought across the country, the German Farmers' Association (DBB) predicted on Tuesday.

The tonnage is 7% down on the year, after a particularly good 2025 harvest of 45 million tons, but only 1% below the five-year average of 42.5 million tons.

There were stark regional differences, with damage particularly severe in southern Germany. The farming industry is calling for financial assistance because many farms are under considerable pressure, although it does not expect an immediate impact on consumer prices.

DBB head Joachim Rukwied described the harvest as disappointing. "Particularly in southern and western Germany, a lack of rainfall has resulted in poor yields and, in some cases, crop failures," he said.

After a dry spring, a heatwave hit in the second half of June during the crucial grain-filling period.

Losses have been reported for winter wheat, the most important grain crop, as well as winter rapeseed, which also suffered pest damage. Potatoes are expected to produce an average to below-average harvest, the DBB said.

There are also problems with animal feed supplies, and some farmers may have to send animals for slaughter.

Rukwied predicted the smaller harvest would have little effect on retail prices for bread, as the price of grain is a relatively small component of the total price.

He said for fruit and vegetables, the increased minimum wage was reinforcing a trend toward cheaper imported produce. Prices for vegetables and potatoes fluctuate strongly in general and are difficult to predict.

Many farmers now face a difficult situation with grain. Rukwied said prices had been below average for three years, with prices tied to international markets.

The DBB pointed to high energy costs in Germany. Rukwied called on the coalition government for an "immediate aid package" for farmers.

Federal Agriculture Minister Alois Rainer said he was aware of the difficult situation but initially offered no concrete measures in response to the demands. Farmers could be certain that he would fight at every level to ensure that agriculture receives support, he said.

Environmental organizations called for the sector to do more to prepare for the effects of climate change. "Prolonged summer drought threatening harvests will become increasingly common as global warming progresses, and this poses a long-term threat to our food security," warned the BUND conservation organization.

The NABU organization called for more resilient farming methods, for example, through the promotion of greater crop diversity, humus-rich soils and better water retention.