Pierre Pagès, Chairman of Semae : A 30% drop in seed corn acreage expected by 2024

>>> How is European seed corn production faring?

Pierre Pagès: In 2023, the European Union produced seed corn on 170,000 hectares. France remains the leading producer with over 80,000 hectares—down from over 85,000 hectares in the previous two years—followed by Romania (28,000 hectares) and Hungary (25,000 hectares). Other major producing countries include Russia, with 45,000 hectares primarily for its domestic market, and Ukraine, with 35,000 hectares now resuming exports.

By 2024, the production area in France is expected to decrease by 25% to 60,000 hectares. Romania and Hungary are projected to see a 30% drop, while Ukraine could reduce its volumes by 40%!

>>> What are the reasons for this decline?

P.P.: There are two main reasons for the decrease in acreage. Firstly, we are transitioning from an excellent production year in 2023 for all of Europe, including Eastern Europe, following a very poor 2022. This resulted in much higher seed production. Secondly, the corn market has been declining in recent years, particularly in 2023, when it experienced a roughly 7% decrease.

For 2024, it is challenging to estimate the impact of delayed sowings of maize and sunflower due to the very wet winter (mid-March), as well as uncertainties regarding spring barley sowings.

Intra-European seed sales flows must also be considered. France remains the world’s leading corn exporter, with 60% of its production exported, primarily to European countries such as Germany and Poland, as well as Russia, although this is changing.

>>> Is the assurance of outlet for French seeds to Russia diminishing?

P.P.: Indeed, Russia is closing down and relocating its corn seed production and breeding programs, including sunflowers. Hungary and Romania, which previously exported a significant portion of their corn seed to Russia, are now seeking new markets, turning to countries such as Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and West Africa.

>>> Does France compete with other countries by importing corn seed?

P.P.: France imports very little corn seed. However, we are closely monitoring Ukraine. Since 2020, the country has met EU standards for its seed production, enabling exports to member countries.

Ukraine has restored its corn production to pre-war levels and is currently making industrial investments in the sector. Consequently, AGPM (General Association of Corn Producers) has requested the implementation of a safeguard clause on Ukrainian imports.

>>> Is the industry encouraging farmers to be vigilant about the origin of their produce to favor French products?

P.P.: Indeed, promotional campaigns for French seeds, such as ‘Maize in France’, are underway. The objective is to defend our historical expertise, which serves as a guarantee of quality, and to support domestic production methods within the industry.

>>> Is there any change in the European panorama of players in the seed corn sector?

P.P.: No, the market has been fairly stable over the past few years. Four major companies dominate the supply: Bayer, Corteva, KWS, and Limagrain. They are followed by smaller players such as Lidéa (formed by the merger of Euralis and Caussade in 2020), RAGT, and Mas Seeds. Additionally, several smaller players are entering the market, offering varieties such as Semences de France and Soufflet, along with Panam France.”

>>> How have these players organized variety selection in recent years?

P.P.: There are two main priorities guiding breeding: climate change adaptation and the elimination of phytosanitary molecules. Efforts in environmental adaptation aim to propose varieties with lower water requirements and shorter cycles.

Maize varieties completing their cycles outside dry periods, with a strategy to avoid hydric stress in July-August through earlier flowering, can maintain their potential while consuming less water. Earlier harvests also reduce drying costs, which is advantageous amidst rising energy expenses.

Genetic research has contributed to advancements in varietal resistance. Presently, most hybrid varieties are resistant to helminthosporiosis. Semae has established a fund to combat corn rootworm, and four R&D programs are progressing on resistance to main corn pests, namely wireworm and geomyza. Additionally, the protein content of corn is an emerging topic, especially for animal feed purposes.

>>> In your opinion, are NGTs an interesting tool for corn breeding?

P.P.: Biotechnologies like NGTs are indispensable tools in addressing the various breeding challenges we encounter. Breeding is time-consuming, taking 8 to 10 years to create a new variety, emphasizing the importance of an appropriate regulatory framework for NGTs.

Presently, the European Parliament supports a regulatory framework for NGTs, advocating for a ban on patenting, herbicide resistance, and traceability and labeling requirements. However, the latter may act as a significant barrier to innovation and consequently the use of this technology in Europe. At Semae, we advocate for genuine transparency regarding seed production methods, enabling farmers to ultimately choose the type of seeds offered.

>>> What are your expectations for the future of the corn seed industry?

P.P.: We aim to safeguard our means of production by ensuring access to water and resisting the withdrawal of molecules without alternative solutions. Due to the lack of irrigation access, some growers have reduced their acreage by up to 50% by 2023. Following the ban on the herbicide S-metolachlor, seed production will become exceedingly challenging.

Our industry must remain competitive. With substantial investments in production, propagators require assurances to continue their profession and primarily to replenish the workforce. Manpower scarcity is also a significant concern. Our industry offers numerous seasonal jobs, and the absence of seasonal workers has forced some growers to reduce their acreage. Other seed sectors, like spinach and certain clovers, have already disappeared due to the absence of crop protection solutions.

At a time when food sovereignty is a prevalent topic, defending the corn seed industry in Europe and in France represents a major challenge.