Free of charge

Chestnuts: drastic drop in production

November 4, 2024 at 4:53 PM , Der AUDITOR
Play report as audio

ATHENS. Record temperatures and severe drought are causing the chestnut production in Greece to decline significantly. The situation is very serious, and growers are asking the government for help.

Up to 90% fewer chestnuts

Things are not looking good for the Greek chestnut industry, as FreshPlaza reports with reference to the Reuters news agency. Greece is one of the world's largest producers of chestnuts, but this season the industry is facing a massive drop in production due to extreme weather conditions. Reuters spoke to Anestis Altinis, a farmer from Kissos, who expects the crop to be down by up to 90%. Estimates for this year's crop are 15,000 mt, which is only half the five-year average. Market experts cite the fact that Greece has experienced both the warmest winter and the hottest summer since records began as the main reason for this. Cherry, apple and walnut growers have also been badly affected by this; in Europe, climate change is becoming increasingly noticeable, particularly in the southern countries. Thessaly, an important agricultural region in Greece, has experienced a prolonged drought following devastating floods, which is exacerbating the crisis for chestnut producers.

Irrigation urgently needed

The situation will have a noticeable impact on Greece's economy as a whole, as the Reuters experts report. The central bank is expecting higher costs for crops and fruit in a country that is still recovering from its major financial crisis and where agricultural products account for a fifth of total exports. Farmers are now turning to the government for help, demanding assistance with the irrigation of their plantations in particular, as otherwise there is a risk of desertification. Greek chestnuts are mainly sold in Europe and the Balkan countries, where they are used for cooking or in the confectionery industry.

View more
- price charts

View related articles

Go to the News Overview
Nuts
Jul 2, 2026
ORDU/BRUSSELS. Exporters in Turkey are venting their frustration with the EU on social media. Recent import statistics highlight that their fears a justified. Crop quality and the TMO base price will set the agenda for hazelnuts in the next few weeks. Financial challenges are also prevailing.
Nuts
Jul 2, 2026
IRVING/BRUSSELS/BEIJING. As the recent Position Report issued by the American Pecan Council shows EU member states have started to buy US in-shell pecans. The EU has set an import rate quota that affects US pecans. Chinese processors are not happy with the delay on the EU’s decision to raise the maximum level for nickel in pecans.
Nuts
Jul 1, 2026
GAZIANTEP. Market perceptions changed for pistachios in Turkey in June. Demand and the prospects for the 2026 crop are driving sentiments and prices.
Nuts
Jun 30, 2026
MANILA. Desiccated coconuts remain the most stable product on the coconut market, while coconut oil is under pressure. This is primarily due to improved supply and the uncertainties surrounding El Niño.