Dutch potato exports rise 12.6% amid declining European harvest

Exports of table and processing potatoes from the Netherlands increased by 12.6% as of September 30, 2026, compared with the same period last year, reaching 147.96 thsd tons against 131.39 thsd tons a year earlier. The increase in shipments comes amid expectations of a significant decline in potato production across the main producing countries of Northwestern Europe, affecting regional trade flows.

Belgium remains the largest buyer of Dutch potatoes, increasing imports by 29.7% to 90.9 thsd tons from 70.1 thsd tons a year earlier. Shipments to France rose by approximately 81% to 16.93 thsd tons, while exports to Germany declined by 51.2% to 7.74 thsd tons. Overall, the Netherlands exported 118.9 thsd tons of potatoes to European markets, approximately 18% more than during the same period in 2025.

According to preliminary estimates, combined potato production in Belgium, Germany, France and the Netherlands could decline by 25.4% in 2026 to 20.7 mln tons. Meanwhile, planted area decreased by 13.7%. High temperatures and drought negatively affected production, resulting in lower yields and smaller tuber sizes. This could limit supplies of potatoes suitable for industrial processing.

Outside Europe, Dutch potato exports showed mixed trends. Shipments to African countries declined by 11.7% to 15.1 thsd tons, while exports to the Americas increased by approximately 5% to 13.95 thsd tons. Thus, European buyers, particularly Belgium and France, accounted for most of the growth in overseas shipments.

Despite the expected decline in the regional harvest, processing potato prices remained broadly stable in mid-October.

Tags: EU, Netherlands, potato