Swiss potato harvest drops 20% after summer heatwaves

Switzerland is experiencing its worst potato harvest since records began, with production falling 20% due to summer heatwaves, forcing the import of 130,000 tonnes to compensate. Swiss farmers harvested only 333,000 tonnes of tubers this year, nearly 20% below the six-year average, according to industry organization Swisspatat. The shortfall and imports may impact store prices, though no shortage is expected. Swisspatat urges the government to support new breeding technologies for more resilient varieties and ensure adequate water access, emphasizing preparation for climate change effects.