African countries also purchased a large volume of consumption potatoes from the Netherlands in November. Exports to this continent are now 80% higher this year than last year. European exports actually fell by 30%.
The largest buyer of potatoes for consumption in November was Germany with 12.158 tons. Belgium is in 2nd place with 11.145 tons. At number 3 we find the first African country: Senegal with 9.882 tons. Mauritania and Mali also purchased a considerable amount of potatoes, according to the figures published by the Dutch Potato Organization (NAO).
More to Germany
Compared to a year earlier, the volume to Belgium fell by 64% in November. Exports to Germany actually increased by 14%. Exports to our eastern neighbors were also higher for the whole of 2020. A total of 20%, good for 8.300 tons. Belgium actually purchased 45% fewer potatoes this calendar year (up to and including November).
The growth in exports to Africa is even greater. Senegal, Mali and Ivory Coast in particular have bought a lot of potatoes here this year. Exports up to and including November amount to 85.000 tons compared to 47.680 tons last year. A plus of 80%. More potatoes were also exported to America and Asia this year.
Negative
Because Europe has purchased 71.500 fewer potatoes so far this year, 2020 will still be down compared to a year earlier. The export counter stands at almost 300.000 tons compared to 322.000 tons a year earlier.
There is a good chance that a new country will be added to the December export list: India. The Dutch potato sector has been trying to export consumption potatoes to this country for years. This is already allowed in Germany. Because India has a shortage of potatoes and onions, resulting in very high market prices, it is allowed to export potatoes from December. The border is open until January 31, 2021. However, the potatoes must be washed and exported via one of 6 designated ports.