Seed potato exports are leaving ever-larger gaps. The hope that Europe would purchase more in March has not come true. This is evident from figures from the Dutch Potato Organization (NAO).
The export figures are particularly disappointing after the special year of 2017. More than 637.000 tons were exported (up to and including March), considerably less than last year in the same period (715.500 tons). While more than 50.000 tons less were exported last month (compared to last year), the backlog has now increased to almost 80.000 tons. It results in the lowest seed potato exports in 20 years (as of March 31).
Now that the season has started, there was hope that more seed potatoes could be sold within Europe. The figures show that more than 287.000 tons have been sold in Europe up to and including March, almost 70.000 tons less than last year. Countries such as Spain and Italy in particular have decreased less compared to last year.
Africa is leading the way
The export cart is currently being pulled by Africa. More than 188.000 tons have been exported to various African destinations, which is 6.000 tons more than last year on March 31. A lot was sold to Algeria in particular (more than 82.000 tons).
The trading houses are not surprised by the low figures. The conclusion is that a low free market price for consumption potatoes always leads to a lower volume of seed potatoes. This is also because many consumption potatoes are used as seed potatoes.This year currently shows the lowest seed potato exports since 1998.