The early potato harvest in Spain has accelerated. After a cool and wet spring, and therefore a slow start, very high temperatures are now being reported. This has direct consequences for supply, quality and pricing.
Due to the heavy rainfall and relatively low temperatures, hopes for a particularly early potato harvest in Spain quickly disappeared. In some parts of Andalusia and Murcia, the first new potatoes harvested, but still very little. The peak that was expected in the second half of May has now broken out in full force. The summer conditions are the reason for this. This makes growers concerned about the quality of their product.
Pressure on yield and quality
It is estimated that the harvest in Andalusia was 30% advanced at the end of last week and in the Murcia region even 50% of the new potatoes had already been harvested. The yields vary widely. Compared to last year's good harvest, less supply is expected in general this season. The quality of the potatoes also leaves much to be desired in many places. The wet spring causes increased disease pressure. Phythophthora in particular is a problem for many growers.
The association of young farmers in Spain (Asaja) assumes that 400 to 500 hectares of potatoes will be lost this year, as a result of flooding in the previous months. The news site La Verdad reports this. Companies around Mar Menor, in the southeast of Murcia, are particularly experiencing problems. The groundwater level is so high that many tubers are damaged and rot. According to Asaja, also in other areas with fewer water problems, production is low and the quality is substandard.
Pricing mess
The situation has a major influence on the price formation of Spanish potatoes. Market analysts speak of a temporary mess when it comes to prices. Less exports from Spain have an upward effect on prices. For example, prices between €65 and €74 per 100 kilos are reported for varieties such as Agata, Charlotte, Alegria and Annabelle. This is partly due to the high transport and storage costs. However, prices vary widely, partly due to the significant differences in quality. Growers reportedly receive between €36 and €40 for potatoes.
Below cost
Asaja reports that Spanish growers are currently forcing the produce they are harvesting having to sell at a loss. This includes potatoes and onions. The organization accuses the government of not tackling unfair trade practices, which causes a large difference between the price the farmer receives and the price the consumer pays.
New legislation that has been in force in Spain since February makes it mandatory to mention production costs on purchase agreements. The agreed price should at least cover these costs. In practice, these regulations are not or insufficiently complied with. Asaja calls for better compliance and additional measures to guarantee a minimum income for farmers.