Germany's grain harvest drops 7% to 41.9 million tons due to drought
Persistent drought has reduced German grain production by 3.3 million tons compared to 2025, while Rhine river levels remain critically low at Kaub and water supply shortages in Paris.
OPEC+ members agreed to increase output targets starting in August as the cartel attempts to secure its future. In France, a utility company began using the River Seine to cool buildings in Paris during recent heatwaves. Meanwhile, Germany faces severe agricultural and logistical challenges caused by prolonged drought conditions.
The German Farmers' Association (DBV) stated that the country's grain harvest will be 7% lower than the previous year, resulting in an expected production of 41.9 million tons. This represents a shortfall of 3.3 million tons compared to 2025 figures. Rapeseed production fell by 17%, reaching 3.3 million tons. Barley yields remained stable due to expanded land allocation, but sugar beet harvests in certain regions were expected to be significantly worse. The Federal Statistical Office also forecast a 18% decline in the national apple harvest.
Water scarcity continues to impact the Rhine River. At Kaub, water levels stood at approximately 16 centimeters (6.3 inches). Ship operators have cut cargo loads to one-fifth of normal capacity along the corridor between Mainz and Bonn. Jens Schwanen of the BDB association warned that the river segment may become impassable before the end of the week.
