Crop shipments decrease due to heat wave... concerns over rising food prices

As the heatwave continues, the amount of agricultural produce being shipped is decreasing, and the likelihood of food prices rising is increasing. On farms in Seosan, South Chungcheong Province, crop growth, including cabbage, is slowing, and farmers are worried about a decline in this year’s production. According to data from the Korea AgroFisheries & Food Trade Corporation, the prices of some vegetables, including young radish greens, spinach, cucumbers, and leaf mustard cabbage, have risen sharply compared to last month. The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs explained that during periods of high temperatures, crop growth slows and growth stress increases at temperatures above 25 degrees Celsius. The problem is that if the heat lasts longer, it could also affect supply around Chuseok. For crops like carrots, planting may be delayed, and concerns have been raised that fall harvests could decrease. Seafood and livestock products are also facing greater pressure on prices and production due to high water temperatures and the heatwave. The government has begun onsite inspections and support efforts to reduce damage to agricultural, livestock, and fishery products. The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs and the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries are focusing on preventing supply instability from spreading by preparing support for hightemperature stress relievers and measures to respond to high sea temperatures.