The Dutch chip industry fears a shortage of ware potatoes for processing. This is stated by the Association for the Potato Processing Industry (VAVI). The processing industry in Germany also fears a shortage of suitable potatoes.
By the dryness and high temperatures, the VAVI expects a considerably lower supply of ware potatoes. Various organizations are also calling out among our eastern and southern neighbors that there are major problems for potato growers and industry.
Yields reduced by 25%
For example, the Association of the Potato Processing Industry in Germany (the BOGK) fears a shortage of potatoes of a good size for French fries processing. According to the BOGK experts expect the potato harvest to be 25% lower. The association is also concerned whether sufficient tubers will be produced in size, which are needed for the production of French fries.
There is also a shortage of raw materials. The association also talks about quality problems. "The irrigation is not having the desired effect," reports the organization. In many cases this is no longer allowed. It is also apparent from PCA's trial harvesting that irrigation is indeed a difference makes.
Yield reduction in Germany
In the latter MARS report the expected potato yield in Germany was reduced by 10% compared to last year. The yield is expected to be 42,8 tons per hectare. Expected revenues in the European Union have been cut by 3,3% for the time being in the report.
In Belgium, the General Farmers Syndicate (ABS) fears that the contract growers in serious trouble come. "A disaster is unfolding, which the growers of contract potatoes are suffering from," the syndicate said.
Drought is force majeure
"The factories must see the drought as force majeure", ABS argues. Jaap van Wenum, chairman of LTO Arable Farming, also let know to sit down with the factories. However, Belgapom points to the growers' own responsibility.