Climate change continues to shape the way Spaniards eat, a trend that became even clearer after four extreme heatwaves at the end of the summer. Prolonged drought pushed food prices higher as harvests faltered, a reality acknowledged by the government. The Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, acting Luis Planas, admitted that the cost of basic foods is rising sharply while stressing the importance of maintaining supply in both the near term and the longer horizon.
During an interview with Antena 3 on a recent Saturday, Planas emphasized the need for transparency about the supply chain. He underscored that supermarkets will continue to stock essential products, as has been seen during other times of disruption such as the pandemic or the early stages of the Ukraine conflict. He pointed to drought as a factor that lowers production, noting that while prices are higher, shortages are not inevitable. He summarized the situation by saying that a balance between supply and demand is at work and climate conditions play a fundamental role.
Olive oil remains the focal point whenever the conversation turns to price pressures. Official statistics from the National Institute of Statistics show that olive oil prices in July were nearly 40 percent higher than a year earlier, and the price per kilogram of extra virgin olive oil has since fluctuated. In the latest readings, the price hovered around eight euros per kilo, reflecting concerns about variable seasonal yields and the impact of the drought. Industry sources have confirmed that price spikes have been significant in recent weeks, emphasizing the crucial link between drought, yield, and market pricing.
Planas explained that olive growers are not entirely content with current levels, yet the drought-driven reductions in yield forced producers to adjust prices upward. He described the market as a classic supply and demand dynamic where climate factors are central. The minister also highlighted the broader objective of addressing climate change and the need to curb rising temperatures to stabilize agricultural prices over time.
Looking ahead, Planas called for adaptation strategies that improve water use and boost agricultural efficiency. He indicated that these themes will guide discussions with EU colleagues in the near future, as the informal Meeting of Ministers of Agriculture of the European Union takes place in Córdoba under Spain’s EU presidency. The aim is to align on practical steps to strengthen resilience, safeguard food availability, and manage resources more effectively in a warming climate.