Despite challenging weather conditions this year, including periods of intense heat and prolonged rainfall, the Bavarian Minister for Agriculture, Alois Rainer, does not anticipate disruptions to food supply or significant price increases. Speaking to “Bild am Sonntag” Rainer expressed confidence that farmers will ensure the availability of all products. He further stated that substantial price hikes are not currently foreseen.
The president of the German Farmers’ Association shares this outlook, projecting an average harvest for the year. While acknowledging the difficulties faced by farmers – noting that “while rain is generally needed, the timing during the grain harvest is particularly challenging” – Minister Rainer emphasized the sector’s ability to adapt to weather patterns.
Despite the recent inflationary pressures which have led to disproportionate increases in food prices in recent years, Rainer ruled out the possibility of implementing price controls. He asserted that market intervention would be counterproductive.
Similarly, the Bavarian politician declined to support a reduction in value-added tax (VAT) on specific food products, citing concerns about the potential impact on government revenues. He explained that the federal government, state governments and local authorities all share the revenue generated by VAT.
