Drought reduces vegetable and fruit supply at REO auction in Roeselare; consumers may face higher prices later

The persistent warm and dry weather in Belgium has significantly impacted agricultural production, leading to a reduced supply of vegetables and fruits at the REO auction in Roeselare. Farmers are struggling with water shortages, forcing them to prioritize certain crops and making it difficult to irrigate others.

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We expect the supply to fall further, while demand will remain just as high, and then the price will naturally rise.

Remie Dewitte, commercial director of the REO auction, explained that farmers must make difficult choices about which crops to water. This has resulted in fewer products being brought to the auction. While the decrease has been slight so far, Dewitte anticipates the problem will become more visible if the drought continues.

"We expect the supply to fall further, while demand will remain just as high, and then the price will naturally rise," Dewitte stated. He acknowledged that consumers might feel the impact, depending on whether retailers pass on the increased costs. The situation is not unique to Belgium, with similar issues across Europe due to extreme heat and drought.

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The consumer can notice small dots on the green part of the leek. That comes from small insects that can be kept away by irrigating, but are therefore more often present due to the drought.

Specific produce like leeks are showing minor cosmetic changes, such as small black spots on the green parts due to insects that are harder to control without irrigation. While these leeks are healthy and safe to eat, their appearance might deter some consumers. Dewitte suggested that quality standards might need to be adjusted in the future to accommodate changing growing conditions.

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It is not feasible for our producers to continue to meet certain requirements that were common 10 years ago, because the circumstances have changed.