French potato growers have a high demand for potatoes from various European countries. This is reported by growers' organization UNPT. This has a positive effect on price formation. The export volume for 2017 is considerably higher than last year.
There is more demand for table potatoes from France from Southern Europe. This is noted by the French growers' association UNPT. The volume of potatoes going to Italy and Spain is clearly increasing. Interest is also emerging from Eastern Europe, although trade is not forthcoming for the time being.
Better prices for top quality
Spanish buyers pay €8,50 to €10 per 100 kilos for brushed and bagged table potatoes in Northern France and Pas de Calais. For the Melody variety, €8 is paid per 100 kilos. In the Champagne region, Italian and Spanish buyers pay €13 to €13,50 per 100 kilos for very good quality Agata and Orchestra in big bags. In the northern French region of Beauce, €10 to €13 per 100 kilos is paid for beautiful product in big bags. Lots with a slightly lower peel quality go to Eastern Europe for €6 to €8.
Export starts well
The export engine for the new season has started early. According to export statistics from Agreste, 1 tons of potatoes had been exported on October 153.188. A quarter more than last year. This is partly because at the beginning of 2017 significantly more potatoes went to the Belgian chips industry and the table potato market.
With a volume of 50.000 tons, Belgium is the largest potato buyer in France. For the time being, exports to Spain are at a lower level than last year, but exports are picking up.
Italian offensive
France exported few potatoes to Italy in 2016. As a result, German traders supplied the Italian market, leaving the French with potatoes left over at the end of the season. This year, therefore, exports got off to an early start. The Netherlands and Germany also purchased more French potatoes.