b'Irrigation helps, but its not always enough. In 2024, average seed corn yields were heavily impacted by weather, especially compared to the more favourableconditions in 2023, which had regular rains and moderate temperatures.rainfall but not replace it. Additionally, theres stiff competition for irrigated land with vegetable and other intensive crops producers. The last, but not the least factor is force majeure events. Flooding and freezing in spring, hail and storms in summer, and early frosts in autumn are becoming increasingly common. These events not only disrupt production but also make it impossible to deliver the promised products to the market. While insurance can help balance financial risks, it doesnt solve the problem of meeting demand. SWE: AND WHAT ABOUT THE ROLE OF POLICIES AND ECO- Seed production in Europe is NOMIC PRESSURES? becoming more expensive and less SK: This is another area where challenges are mounting. Year after year, European agriculture faces stricter regulations. Key crop pro- reliable every year.tection products, like neonicotinoids and diquat, are being phased Serhii Komar out, making it harder to protect crops effectively. Similarly, limita-tions on nitrogen fertilizer use prevent growers from maximizing yields.While sustainable agriculture is a worthy goal, the lack of clear guidelines on implementation creates uncertainty for seed produc-ers. This, coupled with rising costs, puts additional pressure on the industry.On top of that, the ongoing geopolitical situation has reshaped key markets. Ukraine and Russia were once growth areas with good FEBRUARY 2025|SEEDWORLD.COM/EUROPEISEED WORLD EUROPE I 13'