German apple farmers are struggling with rising costs and fierce competition despite a drop in harvest yields.

The apple harvest in Germany is down by 18% this year due to frost, heat, and natural cycles, yet prices remain low. Consumers paid an average of €2.20 per kilogram in August, 10% lower than last year, according to the Agricultural Market Information Society (AMI).

Young farmer Nicklas Eckhoff expresses frustration over the influx of cheap imports from Europe and beyond, which undercuts local producers. With high energy and labor costs, many farmers worry about their competitiveness. As the apple harvest declines, consumers may soon face higher prices.