Global potato market is in a fever, overproduction is putting pressure on prices

The European and global potato markets are experiencing a period of overproduction and price pressure. In France, Poland, Belgium and Germany, prices are falling due to record harvests, and the processing industry is working at the limit.

This is reported by FreshPlaza with reference to market participants.

In France, about 8.5 million tons of food potatoes were harvested – 10% more than last year. However, the excess supply caused the collapse of the free market: some batches are sold for €5-15 per ton at a cost of about €150. In Poland, the harvest increased by 15%, to 6.8 million tons, which also led to a sharp decrease in prices. Belgian farmers harvested a high-quality but surplus crop, due to which prices fell to €0.10-0.20/kg.

In the Netherlands and Germany, the situation is aggravated by weak demand and reduced factory operations. Italian prices have fallen to €0.25-0.30/kg under pressure from French imports, while in Austria and Switzerland the market remains stable but with storage difficulties.

Outside Europe, the picture is contrasting. Australia is experiencing a deficit due to drought, South Africa is suffering from overproduction, while Egypt and Pakistan are expecting a successful season thanks to quality seeds and increased exports.

“There is too much potato on the market, and this is felt throughout the chain, from farmers to processors,” said a Dutch trader.

FreshPlaza estimates that this season could be one of the most difficult in recent years: prices are falling in most countries, demand is weak, and the surplus harvest will last at least until the end of the year.

Tags: prices, potato