- by croatiaweek
- April 19, 2026
- in
Croatia has seen a significant decline in potato production, falling from near self-sufficiency to covering just 40% of domestic demand within the past five years.
Farmers across the country warn that a combination of climate change, prolonged drought and increasing imports is pushing the sector into a deepening crisis.
Drought devastates yields
In northern Croatia, particularly in the Međimurje region, last year’s extreme drought nearly wiped out crops.
Local producer Damir Mesarić, who has been growing potatoes for four decades, tells HRT the season as the worst he has ever experienced.
Yields dropped dramatically, with farmers harvesting only around a third of the usual 40 tonnes per hectare.
The financial impact has been severe, with losses running into millions of euros. Producers warn that a repeat of such conditions could force many to abandon potato farming altogether.
While Croatian farmers struggle, producers in Western Europe are benefiting from large surpluses. These excess supplies have been redirected to Eastern European markets, including Croatia, at significantly lower prices.
According to industry representatives, such pricing makes it difficult for domestic producers to remain competitive, further weakening local production.
Rising costs and shrinking production
At the same time, farmers are facing rising production costs. Investments in modern storage facilities with cooling systems are now under pressure as falling prices reduce profitability.
Producers say input costs, including fertilisers, have surged, partly due to global disruptions linked to conflict in the Middle East. As a result, this year’s planting season has been described as both the most expensive and the most uncertain to date.
Reflecting these challenges, the area planted with potatoes has decreased by around 20%.
Uncertain future for the sector
Farmers warn that continued adverse conditions could push the industry to the brink. Many say they are already operating at a loss, with some considering exiting production entirely.
Possible solutions
Adapting to climate change is becoming increasingly urgent. Irrigation systems are seen as a key solution to mitigate drought risks, while government support measures aim to ease losses caused by extreme weather.
However, producers stress that without stronger market protection and sustained investment, Croatia’s potato sector faces an uncertain future.