{
  "id": 2117991,
  "title": "Will Germany's drought push up food prices?",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/18/will-germanys-drought-push-up-food-prices",
  "topic": "finance",
  "section": "Finance & Markets",
  "published": "2026-08-18T14:46:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "DW English (Business)",
    "slug": "dw-english-business",
    "url": "https://www.dw.com/en/will-germany-s-drought-push-up-food-prices/a-78408203?maca=en-rss-en-bus-2091-xml-mrss"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Germany is grappling with a severe drought this summer, causing widespread damage to crops and raising concerns about potential food price hikes. The German Farmers' Association (DBV) predicts a 7% decrease in the country's grain harvest, which is expected to amount to 3.3 million tons less than last year. The drought has particularly affected rapeseed, barley, and potato crops, with the latter experiencing below-average production. The potato crop is anticipated to be below average in some regions, while sugar beet yields may see a significant decline, particularly in southern and western Germany. The Federal Statistical Office also warns that the apple harvest is expected to drop by 18% compared to 2025. While Germany currently has a 2 million-ton grain surplus from last year, the sharp drop in key crops like rapeseed and sugar beet could strain domestic oil and sugar supplies. The agriculture minister acknowledges that higher prices may not materialize immediately, but the increasing costs of fertilizers, energy, and logistics are putting pressure on farmers. If livestock feed remains scarce, this could lead to higher prices for meat, milk, and eggs. The drought has worsened an already challenging situation for German farmers, many of whom are struggling with higher costs and rising debts. The DBV calls for an immediate package of support from the German government, including a larger EU fertilizer aid package and a reduction in agricultural diesel tax.",
  "summary": "Germany's main farmers' association has warned of a below-average harvest after drought and crops damaged by extreme heat. DW looks into what lower yields could mean for food prices and grocery bills.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "DW Business",
        "title": "Will Germany's drought push up food prices?",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/18/will-germanys-drought-push-up-food-prices-2120898",
        "published": "2026-08-18T14:46:00.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}