Ankara: France's potato production is expected to fall at least 23% from last year as heat waves and severe drought hit crops, potentially resulting in the lowest yield in more than three decades, local media reported Monday. France experienced five consecutive heat waves this summer, along with a severe rainfall deficit since late May and historically dry soils, significantly affecting potato crops.
According to Anadolu Agency, the National Union of French Potato Producers' president, Geoffroy D'Evry, stated that last year, the yield was just over 43.5 tonnes per hectare in 2025, while this year's projection is around 34.5 tonnes. This figure is even lower than the historically low yield in 2022. The decline follows a 10% reduction in potato-growing areas in France and an 11% reduction across northwestern Europe after overproduction in 2025, as reported by French broadcaster RFI.
The French potato industry estimates nearly £400 million (about $466 million) in economic losses. D'Evry emphasized that climate change's financial burden should not solely fall on farmers, calling for buyers and customers to recognize the risks and costs of potato production. He also warned of potential impacts on consumer prices.
Agriculture Minister Annie Genevard announced on August 5 that the government is preparing a 'comprehensive plan' to assist farmers affected by repeated heat waves in France and Europe. Proposed measures include emergency support for farm cash flow, relief on social security contributions, regulatory exemptions, and assistance for the most affected farms to resume production. However, the government has not yet specified the aid amount.
Arnaud Rousseau, president of France's largest agricultural union, FNSEA, stated on August 8 that the farming sector would require 'billions of euros' to recover from what he described as an unprecedented climate crisis in scale and duration. Genevard mentioned that decisions on aid allocation would be made after a prefects' meeting scheduled for August 27.
Additionally, the French Federation of Commerce and Distribution announced measures to support farmers, such as relaxing standards on fruit and vegetable size and appearance and prioritizing French-grown products.