October 16, 2023

EU's 2023/24 cereal production likely below five-year average

EU cereal production for 2023/24 is expected to be 4.3% below its five-year average, at 268.5 million tonnes (1% above the previous marketing year) due to the adverse weather conditions over spring and summer that especially impacted corn and barley production.

The feed use of cereals could remain stable while the use of cereals for biofuel production could continue growing (12% above 2022/23).

The European Union continues to be a net exporter of cereals, notably wheat. Exports to the Middle East and Sub-Saharan Africa have particularly increased in the previous months, the European Commission said.

EU oilseed production is faring particularly well and could reach 33 million tonnes which is 6% above the last marketing year and 11% above its five-year average, driven by a recovery in sunflower production, as well as higher soybean production.

- European Commission