Wheat harvests threatened by an aggressive strain of fungus

There is a real danger that wheat harvests in Europe and North Africa could be destroyed as a result of the spread of a disease caused by an aggressive strain of fungus. The disease is caused by the fungus Puccinia graminis, which caused significant damage to grain harvests in Sicily last year. Scientists reported that the losses recorded were the worst for 50 years in Europe.

The new strain of black wheat stem rust could have a similar impact on crops to that experienced in Sicily, and possibly on a much wider scale. Unless immediate steps are taken, contamination could lead to harvests being destroyed in a matter of weeks, with an irreparable impact on food production.

The countries most exposed to contamination are Greece, Albania and Tunisia, owing to their proximity and the speed at which the disease spreads, bearing in mind that black stem rust spores are carried by the wind.

What support instruments are available for small farmers, the majority of whom lack the expertise and funds necessary to combat the effects of this disease?

What steps does the Commission recommend in order to limit outbreaks?