Seed potato exports within the EU are clearly lagging behind due to weak demand and lower sales in Southern Europe. At the same time, a few export destinations outside the EU are providing a counterbalance. Read more about seed potato exports within the EU.
The interim figure for seed potato exports rose to just over 450.000 tonnes at the end of last month, according to figures from the Dutch Potato Organisation (NAO). This puts total seed potato exports 13% below last year's level. At the end of February last year, exports amounted to 516.000 tonnes, approximately 20.000 tonnes above the 5-year average.
Growth in sales to Algeria
Sales to Algeria are actually developing positively. Last month, the country purchased nearly 8.000 tonnes of Dutch seed potatoes. This brings the total volume to nearly 91.500 tonnes. This is the largest seed potato sales to Algeria since the 2014 harvest, when 93.500 tonnes were exported. Compared to last year, sales are 6% higher.
Italy was the largest buyer last month with 15.000 tonnes. However, total exports to this country are lagging behind. Due to lower sales to early destinations, turnover stands at 36.252 tonnes, 17% less than last year.
Spain is also clearly lagging behind. The country has purchased 36% less seed potatoes so far. Poor weather conditions in the country undoubtedly play a role in this. At the end of last month, sales stood at 25.000 tonnes, compared to 40.000 tonnes a year earlier.
Sales to Belgium and Germany
Seed potato deliveries to Germany and Belgium in February were comparable to last year. Total exports to Belgium are slightly lower at 21.500 tonnes. Exports to Germany continue to lag behind. At over 13.500 tonnes, the volume is 22,5% below last year's level.
Germany and Belgium traditionally purchase the largest volumes in March and April. Belgium, in particular, imported a large amount of seed potatoes last year, with 51.000 tonnes in March and 59.000 tonnes in April. Total exports at that time amounted to 132.314 tonnes. That level seems difficult to achieve this year.
Germany also ultimately imported more than 100.000 tonnes of Dutch seed potatoes last year. It is uncertain how close sales will come to that level this year. Consumption potato growers are taking a wait-and-see approach due to the low price level for market-market potatoes this season.