Early estimate, on May 31, point to an agricultural year again marked by drought that affects 99.9% of the mainland, of which 35.2% in severe or extreme drought (practically all in south of the Tagus). The winter cereal campaign should be one of the worst, with the crops showing sparse stands, short straws and ears and deficiencies in grain filling. Pastures and fodder crops were also considerably affected, with fodder availability being insufficient to ensure the feeding of many livestock herds in south of the Tagus, with an increase in demand for fodder and straw in a scenario of scarce supply, with prices doubling compared to 2022.

The installation of spring crops has proceeded normally, with the irrigation campaign ensured in 60 hydro-agricultural reservoirs, with 5 remaining with restrictions on the use of irrigation water since last year. The sowed area of rice should increase by 5%, due to the conclusion of works on the hydro-agricultural development channels in the Sado Valley. In tomatoes for processing, 17.7 thousand hectares were contracted between industry and producers, which corresponds to an increase of 16%, compared to the area declared in the 2022 Single Payment. As for irrigated grain maize, no area changes are expected compared to 2022.

The cherry orchards were severely affected by the bad weather conditions, with yield drops of 50% expected. On the other hand, the high temperatures did not affect the vegetative development of the peach trees, and the yield should be close to normal values.