New estimates for 2026 show that the area of land used to grow cereals fell by 18,800ha (6.8%) to 256,100ha compared with 2025.

According to the latest report released today (Monday, November 8) by the Central Statistics Office (CSO) this decline was chiefly driven by a 9,800ha decrease in the area planted under oats - particularly winter oats, which fell by 6,000ha.

In contrast, the area planted under oilseed rape rose by 61.9% (7,300ha) to 19,100ha.

The area under potatoes also showed a decline - falling by 600ha (-6.3%) to 8,400ha.

According to Stephanie Kelleher, statistician in the Agriculture Surveys Section of the CSO, while the latest estimates show that the areas under total cereals has fallen, some other arable crops saw an increase in the area grown.

This included beans and peas (+20.8%), oilseed rape (+61.9%) and maize silage (+10.3%).

Kelleher added: "Some of the reduction in the area under total cereals was offset by increases in the production of other arable crops".

However she also highlighted that the area of potatoes was 8,400ha in 2026 which was less than 2025 when it was 8,900ha.

Tillage incomes

Teagasc economists had previously forecast earlier this year that total cereal production volume would decline in 2026.

They had also warned that with production costs rising and a decline in the profitability of the subsidiary cattle enterprises operated on many tillage farms, average income on tillage farms could fall sharply in 2026.

Tillage farms had seen incomes rise by 33% in 2025, with the average farm income reaching €54,900.

However this year incomes could fall back to an average of €44,000 according to Teagasc economists.

Farm organisations have also warned that Harvest 2026 grain prices failed to deliver an adequate margin for Irish tillage farmers who have battled higher input and labour costs throughout the year.