Frost damage to fruit crops expected to exceed CZK 1 billion, growers say

Losses to fruit production caused by spring frosts in the Czech Republic are expected to reach around CZK 1–1.5 billion, according to estimates by fruit growers. The harvest is projected to be 51% lower compared to the five-year average, Agriculture Minister Martin Šebestyán and the head of the Fruit Growers Union of the Czech Republic Martin Ludvík told journalists.

The minister has already asked the European Commission for support for domestic growers and is expected to discuss the situation in Brussels next week.

This year’s damage is likely the second-largest on record after 2024, when spring frosts reduced the fruit harvest by two-thirds, marking the lowest yield in 100 years. According to Ludvík, losses then reached about CZK 1.45 billion, while fruit prices have since increased by roughly 10%.