But the harvest is expected to be delayed due to the poor conditions which could cause serious supply shortages for a limited period. Also there are serious uncertainties about the quality of the crop and yield due to the adverse weather conditions during the whole cropping period.
The issue was discussed in Copa-Cogeca cereals working party. Speaking after the meeting,Chairman of the group Max Schulman from Finland stressed “The figures show that EU-27 grain production is expected to climb by 4.6% to 286.6 mt from 274 mt whilst soft production will rise by 3.2% and barley production 4.4% (see figures attached). But sowing conditions were very difficult this year which affect the quality of the crops and yields. Many delegates at the meeting complained of poor weather conditions like floods and drought.
Also the harvest is likely to be delayed by 1 to 2 weeks which could cause serious shortages for a limited period. .EU farmers also expect lower yield potentials due to the winter kill this year and the lack of available certified seed varieties. This demonstrates the need for farmers to able to use their own farm saved seed to respond better to the demand”. Copa-Cogeca meanwhile welcomes the compromise agreement reached on the EU Commission proposal for futures markets and regulation of the agri-commodities futures markets (Mifid). Farmers need this tool to help hedge against risks on volatile markets. Additional delivery points for disposing of grain are also needed on future markets so that more farmers have more a choice and availability .
