Inside Potatoes
Belgian potato market takes a big leap
The market price of potatoes in Belgium has made a considerable jump. PCA/Fiwap recorded a considerably higher price for the Fontane and Challenger varieties on Tuesday 11 December, and a higher price was also put on the board for Bintje.
Would you like to continue reading this article?
Become a subscriber and get instant access
Choose the subscription that suits youFontane and Challenger are currently paying €27 to €30 per 100 kilos (direct delivery), which is no less than €2,50 higher than 1 week ago. This clearly shows the level of €30 for the physical market. The €30 limit is also more prominent in the Netherlands, as shown by transactions (especially Innovator) on the Potato Transactions Platform (PAT).
Bottom in motion
The Bintje variety remains the anchor in the market. Yet PCA/FIWAP says that few Bintje of lesser quality are offered. €15 is paid for the lesser parties; this concerns parties with less than 335 grams underwater weight and/or more than 15% floats. This means that the bottom of the market is also moving. The better lots yield €20 to €25 per 100 kilos, but there is little supply of these.
It is striking that the price is making a price jump for the new year. Usually such a jump (if it comes at all) only occurs in the new year, and then often not before February or March. It is a clear signal that customers will (or will have to) pay more to obtain raw materials.
Neighboring countries
It is expected that a price increase is also possible for the countries bordering Belgium. The last cash settlement (6 December) already showed a clear increase to €26,40 (+€0,70). This was mainly due to the input from Germany. Now the price movement from Belgium will allow the next step to be taken.
