Chestnuts: drastic drop in production
November 4, 2024 at 4:53 PM ,
Der AUDITOR
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.
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