Fears for Limited Potato Supply in the European Processing Sector

Potato buyers for the processing sector are more interested in free buying across Europe, and there is concern that continued exports to Spain, Portugal, and Italy would begin to limit supply for processing later in the season.

This week, demand in the fresh sector is stable, and prices are largely constant, but washing-grade fresh potatoes from France are already being imported into Germany, four to eight weeks earlier than usual, according to the latest IFA potato report.

Christmas stockpiles appear to be clearing in the United Kingdom, and there has been increased buying activity this week.

For Ireland, potato sales and consumption are typical for this time of year. The cost of potato storage continues to reduce growers’ margins.

“Growers are encouraged to apply for the Temporary Business Energy Support Scheme (TBESS) as the first claim period will close on January 31st. However, it appears that some growers will not be able to avail of the TBESS due to the reference period of the scheme. Growers must be rewarded for storing crops. There is good demand for peeling material, with prices reported to be rising,” the most recent IFA report reveals.