Belgian fruit yields drop sharply after challenging year of drought and hailstorms. Producers foresee significant decreases in both apple and pear harvests this season.
Industry survey reveals expectations far below average, worrying farmers across the country.
Main causes include ongoing drought, shrinking orchards, and severe hail incidents recently. Apple orchard areas shrank drastically, decreasing production by nearly one quarter since pandemic.
More harvested apples will go to industry, leaving fewer products on local store shelves. Climate change, labor shortage, and limited European Union support exacerbate grower concerns further.