New estimates released by Copa and Cogeca reveal a sharp 10.6% drop in EU rapeseed production this year, compared to last year, mainly as a result of the neonicotinoid seed treatment ban, poor weather conditions and a lack of plant protection products.
The issue was discussed at Copa and Cogeca Oilseeds and Protein Crop Working Party. Chairman of the Working Party Arnaud Rousseau warned “This years rapeseed production is expected to decline by as much as 10.6% this year to reach 14 million tonnes compared to 15.76 mt last year. Yields are also down due to the recent heatwaves and drought across Europe, causing crops to suffer”.
“Overall, EU oilseeds production is forecast to be 8.5% down on last years’ levels. Protein crop production is nevertheless up this year, in response to rising demand. It is also due to a tightening of profit margins between different crops, as well as new measures under the CAP which enable protein crops to be grown on Ecological Focus Areas (EFA) because of their beneficial impact on biodiversity. The increase is welcomed by the sector but it will not be nearly enough to compensate for the potential feed losses for livestock producers ensured by rapeseed oil-cake. This year, there will be a lot less rapeseed oil-cake available for livestock producers. Action is vital”, he stressed.
