There is little evidence of a shortage of seed potatoes within the EU anymore. This is evident from figures from the Dutch Potato Organization (NAO). With almost all seed potatoes shipped across national borders, the 'shortage' was significantly reduced at the end of May. The major shortages are mainly in Asian and African destinations.
On May 31, the counter stood at 434.130 tons exported within the EU by the Netherlands. That is 26.750 tons less, or 5,8%. A considerable volume, but a smaller difference than you might expect given the major shortages this year. This has increased the deficit slightly. A month earlier the deficit was still 2%.
In total, the Dutch seed potato sector exported more than 718.000 tons. That is 16% (137.000 tons) lower than in the previous season and therefore significantly less.
Not less seed potatoes everywhere
Belgium took 1 tons of Dutch seed potatoes until June 112.000. 7.500 tons less than in 2023 (-6,2%). To Germany, the volume has fallen significantly by 20.850 tons. Good for a decrease of 17,4%. France received 2.600 tons less starting material. Number three on the list, Italy, is almost 5.900 tons higher. Spain also received more seed potatoes.
The largest decline in exports is visible in the countries in Asia and Africa. These export figures have not changed significantly compared to last month. After all, the export season has ended. Exports to Asia fell by almost 40.500 tons compared to 2023. To African countries this is even 60.500 tons. Algeria, Egypt and Sudan purchased significantly fewer potatoes. This also applies to Iraq, Syria and Pakistan. Conflict is one of the reasons why that is the case. Israel, on the other hand, actually purchased more seed potatoes.
Export consumption has fallen sharply
The export of consumption potatoes from the Netherlands shows a similar decline this season. Up to and including May, 744.263 tons had been exported, which is 13% less than in the previous season. Exports to EU destinations are 60.000 tons behind. Belgium purchased approximately 10.000 tons fewer potatoes and France 17.800 tons. Exports to Italy have more than halved, to 10.100 tons.
Once again it is the African countries that received considerably fewer potatoes. The position stood at 31 tons on May 69.000, which is almost 44.000 tons less than in the previous season. Exports to American countries are almost 4.000 tons lower.