Reduced corn production, yet increased winter wheat yield - Substantial decrease in maize production, augmented winter wheat cultivation
In the German state of Saxony-Anhalt, the cultivation of corn is projected to decrease significantly this year. The State Statistical Office in Halle estimates that 104,000 hectares of silage corn will be planted, which represents a 10% decrease compared to 2024. The decline is even more pronounced for grain corn and corn for silage, anticipated to drop by approximately 17% to 37,800 hectares this year.
Several factors contribute to the reduction in corn cultivation. Expired contracts for biogas plants have resulted in a diminished need for corn, as has the significant decline in livestock farming — particularly pig and dairy farms. Moreover, the excellent corn yield in 2024 has contributed to a surplus.
In contrast, farmers in Saxony-Anhalt are poised to increase the area devoted to potato cultivation. Expert analysis suggests that the relatively good prices achieved for table potatoes last year have encouraged this decision. The State Statistical Office forecasts an increase of 15.7% to 15,700 hectares this year compared to the previous year, although Saxony-Anhalt remains a relatively minor producer of potatoes.
The anticipated decrease in sugar beet cultivation is estimated to be around 9%. The State Statistical Office expects the area for sugar beet to drop from 54,500 to 49,600 hectares this year. This reduction is largely due to a good harvest in 2024, leading to a surplus, as well as changing dietary habits. The reduction may be more pronounced in remote areas rather than those closer to factories.
While many crops are expected to see a decrease, winter wheat is set for a notable increase in cultivation. Statisticians forecast that around 288,700 hectares will be planted with winter wheat this year, marking a 31,800-hectare or 12.4% increase compared to 2024. Winter wheat accounts for 58.8% of the total grain area in Saxony-Anhalt. Winter rape cultivation is estimated to have increased by 0.6% to 122,900 hectares compared to 2024, while winter barley continues to be planted on 96,300 hectares, which is 5.7% less than in 2024.
The factors driving the increase in winter wheat cultivation in Saxony-Anhalt are not specifically identified in the available data. Factors that may contribute to such an increase in agricultural areas include climate and weather conditions, market demand and economic incentives, technological advancements, government policies and subsidies, and the availability of land and resources.
The fluctuation in various agricultural policies, such as community and employment policies, could potentially influence the farming decisions made by farmers in Saxony-Anhalt, particularly in regards to the increase in winter wheat cultivation. This rise may be linked to economic incentives or government subsidies designed to encourage the growth of specific industries, like the finance sector, which could benefit from a steady supply of agricultural products.
