The agri benchmark network, coordinated by the Thünen Institute of Farm Economics, held a Germany workshop on November 18, 2025. Around 20 crop production and farm management advisors from various regions of Germany came together to discuss data from typical German farms for the network’s international production cost comparison. In addition, current trends and challenges in arable farming were a key focus.
Competitiveness of German Farms
Thomas de Witte highlighted that German farms remain internationally competitive despite strict environmental regulations. While (GMO-based no-till systems in North and South America still rely on crop protection agents such as atrazine and paraquat - banned in the EU for years - their direct costs per ton of grain are often higher than in Germany. The main disadvantage for German farms lies in the efficiency of labour and machinery use. South American operations benefit from larger farm sizes and the ability to grow two crops annually, resulting in significantly higher machinery utilisation.
Harvest 2025 and Outlook for Farm Economics
Marcel Dehler and Jannik Dresemann provided a review of the 2025 harvest and an outlook on expected farm performance. Wheat yields were above last year’s levels in many regions, though below average in areas such as Brandenburg. Despite good yields, falling agricultural prices are causing significant profit declines - some farms can barely cover their cash expenses. The sharp drop in potato prices is expected to have the greatest impact, driven by expanded acreage and a strong EU harvest. From an agronomic perspective, the potential spread of SBR and Stolbur in sugar beets and potatoes is a growing concern.
CO₂-Balances in Focus
Theresa Brandes presented initial findings on greenhouse gas balances in the form of CO2 footprints. She emphasised that these will become increasingly important and could influence farms` credit ratings, as illustrated by the Rentenbank’s interest rate bonus. Emission levels depend heavily on nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) and site conditions. Improving NUE offers significant potential for reducing emissions.
Automation in Arable Farming
Philipp Bodin presented the findings of his master’s thesis on the profitability of highly automated systems in arable farming. His analysis shows that, at current investment costs, an annual utilisation of around 2,000 operating hours is required for economic viability. This makes it clear that existing solutions are only financially feasible for large-scale farm structures or in cooperative use across multiple operations.
Biomass Cap and Adaptation Options for Biogas Plants
Nils-Geert Binder from Agrarberatung Kompakt explained the impact of the biomass cap on biogas plants and maize cultivation. Possible adaptation strategies include downsizing, increasing flexibility, or forming biogas clusters. However, uncertainty about future electricity market prices makes it difficult to predict the development of plant numbers. One thing is certain: silage maize cultivation will decline significantly.
Direct Seeding – Experiences and Research Needs
Finally, the consultants discussed the possibilities and limitations of direct seeding. Ulrich Henne shared his practical experiences from East Holstein. Many participants see a significant need for research in this area, as advisory requests are clearly increasing, yet systematic trials and reliable farm comparisons are lacking. According to current assessments, pure direct seeding is difficult to implement without economic losses. The main challenges are expected in weed control and slug infestation.
The workshop provided a valuable platform for professional exchange and discussion of current trends in arable farming.
