Estonian farmers face worsening labor shortages
Estonia's agricultural sector, especially berry growers, is struggling with labor shortages due to a decline in workers from third countries, mainly Ukraine. The lack of skilled labor is also a growing concern, prompting calls for alternative recruitment strategies and better cooperation.
Estonian agriculture is experiencing increasing difficulty in filling positions, from seasonal berry picking to more technically skilled roles. Berry harvests, which typically start with strawberries in June, have traditionally relied heavily on workers from non-EU countries, particularly Ukraine.
While some berry farmers have already secured sufficient staff for the season, many are finding it harder than in previous years to recruit. The Marjakasvatajate Liit, an association of berry growers, reports that some of its members have yet to find enough workers for the entire season. According to board member Kadri Nebokat, an estimated 75% of berry farm workers come from third countries, with only 25% being local. This year, fewer people are arriving from third countries than usual, mainly due to difficulties in Ukraine and concerns about safety in Estonia.
Labor shortages, along with unfavorable weather and rising input costs, have led some growers to reduce their cultivated areas. The association is considering alternative labor sources, such as Moldova and India.
However, the shortage of skilled workers in agriculture is a broader issue that may be harder to address, as a larger proportion of these workers are Estonian. Rando Värnik, Professor of Rural Economics at the Estonian University of Life Sciences, notes a high number of vacancies for livestock managers, skilled workers, warehouse staff, and others. Agriculture is concentrated in rural areas with lower wages, and many people have moved away, creating a structural problem.
Grain farmer Romet Rässa from Tartu County faces these challenges. Employees who can operate advanced machinery and handle GPS signal disruptions during sowing must be trained on-site, as no young graduates from universities or vocational schools have joined his farm. Värnik suggests alleviating labor shortages through greater cooperation between businesses, colleges, and local governments, as well as promoting rural life, for instance by reintroducing scholarship programs for agricultural courses.
