European Potato Market update – October 2023 (Based on provided text)
Here’s a 100% original summary of the European potato market situation, based on the provided text:
Overall Situation: The European potato market is currently characterized by a generally weak mood, despite adequate supply. Dry conditions have impacted growth in many regions, notably Eastern England where a significant portion of potatoes are grown, leading some growers to destroy crops due to high underwater weights.While irrigation has mitigated yield losses,heat waves have reduced consumption,contributing to market weakness.
Regional Breakdown:
United Kingdom: Prices are notably higher than in the EU-4 (Netherlands and surrounding regions). Fish & Chips potato varieties (like Agria) are trading at around €25.50 per 100kg (sorted & sagged),while Sagitta is between €18.50-€20. Table potatoes vary considerably, from €20-€23 for supported varieties to €6-€9 for less desirable ones. Spain: Agria prices mirror the UK, around €26 for top quality, decreasing to €16 for lower grades. Colomba is also seeing price declines. The average grower price at the end of August was €40.50, a third lower year-on-year. The harvest in northern Spain is advanced. Heat is impacting consumption.
Portugal,France,& Germany: Similar to Spain,these countries are experiencing heat-related consumption declines. Table potato exports have been good but warm weather hasn’t boosted sales.Retail sales of potatoes are down,with hopes pinned on increased french fry sales.
Poland: Polish growers are dissatisfied with the market. Prices fluctuate between €14-€21 for sorted/packaged product, frequently enough failing to cover costs. Demand for french fry potatoes is low, with German companies dominating purchases. Potato imports to Poland increased significantly last season (over 20% to 187,500 tons), with Germany being the largest supplier (112,000 tons).
Netherlands: agria Afland is selling for around €10, but this is compared to the higher, sorted & packaged prices seen in the UK.Disease Pressure: Phytophthora (late blight) has been less prevalent in Western Europe this season compared to the previous two years. Though,Poland has experienced heavy rainfall in late August,increasing the risk of Phytophthora and Knolphytophthora.
Key Takeaways:
Oversupply: Despite challenges, there’s an overall surplus of potatoes, preventing price increases.
Price Discrepancies: Reported prices frequently enough refer to sorted and packaged product, not gross prices, creating a potentially misleading picture.
Heat Impact: Heat waves are a major factor, reducing both crop growth and consumer demand.
