COCERAL experts have increased the forecast for the grain harvest in the EU and the UK in 2026 to 299 million tons

The organization of European grain traders COCERAL has increased its forecast for grain production in the EU and the UK in 2026 from 296.7 to 298.8 million tons compared to December estimates, which will be inferior to last year's 310.5 million tons.

The soft wheat harvest forecast has been reduced from 143.9 to 142.6 million tonnes (148.7 million tonnes in 2025), as wheat yields will be lower than last year, despite sufficient moisture reserves. In southern Europe, crops have entered a decisive phase of development, characterized by good soil moisture and prospects for a high yield, while in other regions of Europe this phase will only begin in May.

The barley harvest forecast has been increased compared to December estimates from 58.2 to 59.3 million tons, which will be inferior to last year's 63.6 million tons.

Corn production will recover after the drought that negatively affected crops last year. However, its yield has been very poor in recent years, so farmers will continue to reduce the area under corn in favor of other spring crops, including soybeans and sunflowers.