France is sinking in potato and corn production: it will lose up to 35% of its output by 2026
France faces a sharp reduction in its major crops in 2026. Agreste estimates 6.55 million tons of storage potatoes, down 21.5%, and 8.90 million tons of corn, down around 35%.
The contrast is especially intense in potatoes and corn , where production losses reach percentages higher than 20% compared to 2025. In the case of sugar beet , Agreste has not yet published a production estimate for 2026, but it does note a significant reduction in the planted area.
The decline comes after the record production recorded in 2025 and is simultaneously due to the decrease in cultivated area and the deterioration of yields.
The area will decrease from 192,000 hectares in 2025 to 166,000 hectares in 2026 , which represents a reduction of approximately 14% .
The average yield, meanwhile, falls from 435 quintals per hectare —43.5 tons per hectare— to 395 quintals —39.5 tons per hectare— , a drop of approximately 9% .
How many potatoes will France produce in 2026?
France expects to produce 6.549 million tons of storage and mid-season potatoes in 2026 , 21.5% less than in 2025. Potatoes destined for starch would reach another 421,000 tons .
Why will French potato production fall in 2026?
Potato production is falling due to a combination of a 14% decrease in planted area and approximately a 9% decrease in yield. The average yield of storage potatoes has dropped to 39.5 t/ha.
Fuente: agronewscastillayleon.com
