Drought and Heat Increase Cost Pressure on French Farmers

France - 08/08/2026: Persistent drought and repeated heatwaves are affecting French agriculture well into the current harvest season. Vegetable growers report damage caused by intense sunlight and water shortages, while livestock farmers face growing feed shortages on drought-stricken pastures. The consequences range from lower yields to higher spending on irrigation, feed purchases and animal protection.The situation is particularly evident on permanent grassland. According to the latest available agricultural data, cumulative grass growth on 10 July was 20 percent below the average for the 1989 to 2018 reference period nationwide. In ...