Hazelnut production in Spain is expected to decline by up to 40%

The Federation of Agricultural Cooperatives of Catalonia (FCAC) has forecasted a significant decrease in Spain's hazelnut production for the 2024-2025 campaign, estimating a drop to 4,100 tonnes from the previous year's 6,800 tonnes, marking a total loss of 2,700 tonnes and one of the lowest yields on record. This decline is largely attributed to the severe drought conditions experienced during the first half of 2024, marking the third consecutive year of adverse weather impacts. The drought has necessitated strict irrigation restrictions, impacting both irrigated and dry hazelnut crops. Furthermore, climate change has been identified as a contributing factor, exacerbating pest issues in hazelnut cultivation. The FCAC has also raised concerns about the potential risks of fertilizing dryland plantations, given that hazelnuts play a crucial role in preventing desertification and providing ecological balance in regions with challenging cultivation conditions.