The Dutch national team struggled through three matches at the World Cup in Qatar, but the country is at the top in another ranking. We are talking about the export of French fries to the Gulf state. In the run-up to the big event, the Qataris have already stocked up on a lot of product.
The island state of Qatar is not a significant destination for frozen fries and other potato products. Certainly not compared to its much larger neighbor Saudi Arabia. In the run-up to the largest football event in the world, the Qataris imported 14% more frozen fries compared to the same period last year. This concerns almost 22.000 tons of fries. Roughly half of this is supplied by Dutch companies.
Stock up early
Stocks of fries were largely built up six months before the World Cup started. Based on customs data - from the harmonized trading system - it appears that relatively large quantities of fries were imported, especially in May and June. The volume in May was 60% higher than a year earlier and in June that percentage almost doubled. That is a lot for a country with only 3 million inhabitants. In July and August, imports weakened again to levels equal to or below those of last year.
Football supporters can therefore enjoy their familiar fries in and around the stadium. Beer is probably not included, because it was banned by the government. It is only allowed in specially designated areas alcohol to consume. A glass of beer costs about €14.
Higher prices
Exporters have made good money from the sale of fries. Product prices are more than half higher than what was paid last year. This is largely due to the strong demand for fries worldwide and tighter availability than desired. The Netherlands supplied product at €1.450 per ton for a relatively favorable price. Only Belgium – the discounter on the world chip market – is below this with €1.300. France, the United States and Germany also supplied potato products to Qatar. Much higher amounts are involved. In August, the US was the largest supplier of fries to Qatar.
Saudi Arabia's figures are in stark contrast to its neighbor. Not surprising when you consider that more than 35 million people live here. The country is one of the largest French fries importers in the world. In the past twelve months up to September, the imported volume was 300.000 tonnes. A plus of 6% on the previous period. The Saudis actually imported more fries this summer. Belgium is the largest supplier to the country, although the Netherlands is also close on the ball. A notable supplier is Egypt, although the volume is only a fifth of what Belgium or the Netherlands supplies.
An upturn in the import of fries prior to a major event, such as the Football World Cup, is common. This was also visible in Brazil and South Africa, among others. Especially when the country itself does not have significant potato cultivation and processing.