European onion supplies decline amid drought and deteriorating crop quality

Onion supplies in Europe are declining in the 2026/27 season due to unfavorable weather conditions, increasing disease pressure and quality issues. These concerns were raised by participants at the annual Euronion conference held in London. According to industry representatives, production conditions have been most favorable in the Netherlands and Northern European countries, while southern regions have faced more challenging growing conditions.

According to Lijn Moerdijk of Dutch company MSP Onions, Spain recorded a good onion harvest, as did northern regions of Poland and Germany. However, overall onion supplies across Europe are lower this season, while quality problems have become more widespread. The main factors include drought, prolonged periods of high temperatures and increased disease pressure, particularly from Fusarium and bacterial infections.

Additional challenges for European growers stem from restrictions on the use of crop protection products. Conference participants noted that several countries have reduced the range of approved products needed to effectively control onion diseases. Regulations governing their use also differ among EU member states, affecting farmers’ production capabilities. Extreme heat further increases the risk of crop losses and reduces the suitability of onions for long-term storage.

Despite lower supplies, Europe’s onion export potential remains significant. According to industry estimates, exportable supplies could reach around 1.2 mln tons in the 2026/27 season. During the first 14 weeks of the season, European suppliers had already exported 409 thsd tons of onions. The United Kingdom remains an important export destination, as domestic production is insufficient to meet demand. Meanwhile, Spain has adequate domestic supplies and does not require additional imports from other European countries.

Amid increasing production risks, European companies are stepping up the adoption of new onion growing and sorting technologies. Innovations presented at the conference included heat-tolerant varieties, precision application systems for crop protection products and fertilizers, and advanced optical sorting equipment.

Tags: EU, onion