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Bavarian farmers urged to slash sugar beet output by 25% in 2026

A financial lifeline for growers—but at a steep cost. With rain delays and market gluts, Bavaria’s sugar beet farms brace for drastic changes.

In this picture we can see a group of many bees on the ground.
In this picture we can see a group of many bees on the ground.

Too Many Sugar Beets on the Market - Bavarian farmers urged to slash sugar beet output by 25% in 2026

Südzucker AG has called on Bavarian farmers to cut sugar beet production by 20–25% in 2026. The move aims to steady falling prices amid a global sugar surplus. Growers who reduce their output will receive a financial incentive for the upcoming season.

Bavaria’s sugar beet harvest has seen mixed results this year. While overall yields remain average, areas like Augsburg and Plattling report higher sugar content. However, persistent rain in northwestern Bavaria has slowed progress, delaying work that normally runs from September to mid-November.

Farmers who agree to scale back cultivation will earn a premium payment. The reduction targets 2026 and follows warnings about oversupply in the market. Südzucker’s request comes as disease and weather complications add to the sector’s difficulties.

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