The upcoming grape harvesting campaign is shaping up to be extremely risky and problematic due to a series of unfavorable climatic factors. A leading expert from the industry is sounding the alarm about a potential collapse in grape production, which could cause significant economic disruptions.
Yordan Chorbadzhiyski, representative of the National Viticulture and Winemaking Chamber, emphasized the critical impact of prolonged drought and climatic anomalies on vineyard areas. According to his words, white grape varieties will be most severely affected, with destruction potentially reaching almost 100 percent in some regions.
The expert pointed out that there are farms with 80-100% damaged areas that are practically deprived of the possibility of a harvest this year. This collapse will inevitably cause a drastic increase in grape purchase prices, which will further aggravate the situation for producers.
Chorbadzhiyski categorically rejected accusations of price speculation, emphasizing that the price increase of 20-30 percent is an objective reality, not a commercial manipulation. As a possible solution, the expert suggested potential grape imports from neighboring countries like Romania and Hungary.
Among the main challenges facing the sector is the critical condition of irrigation systems. Although the country has sufficient water resources, the lack of adequate infrastructure hinders their effective use. Chorbadzhiyski expressed hope that the new leadership of the Ministry of Agriculture will take concrete actions to restore the irrigation system.
A key point in his analysis is the need for urgent investments in modernizing existing infrastructure and preventing the loss of valuable water resources. According to him, proper management can guarantee the stability of the wine sector in the future.