The area of potatoes grown in Europe shows a small increase compared to last season. This is stated by market bureau Mintec based on data from players in the market and preliminary estimates. The acreage may remain almost the same, but a shift in the destination of the potatoes grown is expected.
Potato growers are faced with a significant increase in production costs. Fuel, fertilizer, electricity and labor have increased significantly compared to last year. In January, the NEPG growers' association calculated the cost price increase at 15% to 20% compared to a year earlier. According to Mintec, the actual increase in cultivation costs is higher this season, partly due to the war in Ukraine. According to the market agency, this is reducing confidence among growers in the potato sector.
Weather is the deciding factor
Although the area shows marginal growth, there is a shift from starch and table potatoes to chip potatoes. This affects the expected potato harvest this season. Compared to last season, there is potentially more chip potatoes coming onto the market, which could have a downward effect on prices. However, the weather is another determining factor in pricing. Due to the relatively small area, the market is more sensitive to disappointing growing conditions, says Mintec. April was drier than average and concerns about drought this season are increasing. Due to the rain in recent weeks, concerns about drought have diminished somewhat on the market.