Potato legs quite a challenge in Ukraine

Since the Russian army withdrew to eastern Ukraine, the planting and sowing season is in full swing. Despite all the hustle and bustle, potato planting in the west of Ukraine goes fairly smoothly, but in the north it is a lot more difficult, partly due to logistical reasons. In the southern part of Ukraine, which has also been hit hard by the invasion, there is also a lot of uncertainty about how much and where can be planted.

Transport an issue
Not only is the scarcity of fuel, fertilizer and other raw materials a problem, but the transport of seed potatoes also causes headaches. In the northern regions, where a lot of potatoes normally grow, the infrastructure is quite damaged. The destroyed access roads and bridges make it extremely difficult to get potatoes to farms in these areas. Heavy transport such as trucks is therefore no longer a given. In addition, the transport of this is already three times higher than normal. 

In any case, it is not due to the demand for seed potatoes. Growers are willing to plant potatoes according to Agrico Ukraine. There is particular demand for early varieties. However, due to the transport problems mentioned, not everyone can be provided with seed potatoes.

Continental Farmers Group Ukraine reported this week that it had already planted 50% of its potato area. The company is located in western Ukraine and one of the leading potato producers in Ukraine. The larger companies have a much more difficult time compared to the smaller companies. They have good mechanization, their own storage and have an easier time with financing. 

Low volumes
Agrico director Jan van Hoogen also reports that seed potatoes have been exported to Ukraine despite the war. Some of the seed potatoes had already been exported. This is by no means about volumes as is normally the case, but Van Hoogen indicates that they try to deliver the maximum that is feasible. They also try to provide support where possible.