COCERAL forecasts a drop in EU cereal production in 2026

Wheat production (excluding durum wheat) is expected to reach 143.9 million tonnes, compared to 147.5 million tonnes in 2025. Yields are expected to decrease from the exceptional levels observed in 2025, although rainfall in recent months has provided favorable soil moisture conditions, ensuring good crop development in many parts of the EU before winter. Wheat sowing is expected to be slightly higher than last year. Barley production is expected to decrease from 63.2 million tonnes to 58.2 million, also due to the decrease in yields to normal levels. The largest drop in production is expected in Spain, following the excellent yields of 2025, and in the United Kingdom, where a decrease in the cultivated area is expected. The 2026 maize harvest is expected to recover from the drought-affected harvest in 2025. However, since farmers have been disappointed by maize yields in many of the past years, plantings will likely continue to decline, particularly in the Balkan countries and ...