EarthFresh Inc., a Canadian potato company in Burlington, installed a new advanced packing line to address growing demand and operational challenges, including supply chain issues and equipment aging. The new system, funded by the Ontario Supply Chain Stability and Adaptability Program, improved packing rates, reduced unplanned downtime, and enabled sustainable packaging options. This upgrade also lowered transportation costs and enhanced the local market.
Trade/Markets/Prices
Weather challenges persist: European and Irish potato farmers struggle with planting delays as demand stays high
The latest Irish Farmers Association report underscores the difficulties Irish potato farmers face due to unpredictable weather, causing planting delays and a potentially late harvest. Despite these challenges, retail demand and home consumption remain strong, pressuring old season stocks and driving up physical prices. This trend is seen across Europe, with weather impacts noted in the Netherlands and the UK.
Ukrainian potato price hike: Prices now triple compared to last year
EastFruit reports a significant price increase for last year’s potatoes in the Ukrainian market, with current prices for the 2023 harvest ranging from 15 to 22 UAH per kilogram (approximately $0.38 to $0.55). This is a 27% hike since the previous week, attributed to a seasonal decrease in supply amid steady demand. Quality issues and a rapid depletion of stocks contribute to the rise, with prices now 3.4 times higher than the same period last year.
McCain Foods to modernize and expand French potato processing facilities for sustainable growth
McCain Foods plans to invest €350 million into its French potato processing facilities over five years to boost production by 25% and reduce emissions. Investment targets include modernizing the Matougues plant, which will help expand operations significantly. This initiative, highlighted during President Macron’s visit, aligns with broader market growth in processed potato products driven by demand for convenience foods and advancements in processing technology. Challenges such as price volatility and supply disruptions due to climate impacts are also noted.
Limited stocks and anticipated harvest delays keep UK potato prices on upward trend
UK potato prices have surged due to a low 2023 harvest and delayed planting, with English White potatoes now at £630/MT, showing a 90% increase, and Maris Piper potatoes at £660/MT, up by 120%. Market analyst Harry Campbell at Mintec writes that despite warmer May weather improving planting, supply constraints continue, leading growers to hold stocks in anticipation of prices reaching beyond £700/MT. The market remains primarily a sellers’ market.
Royal HZPC Group navigates market volatility: Financial stability amid fluctuating yields and global expansion
Royal HZPC Group forecasts a similar financial outcome for 2023/2024 as last year, with an expected 4% increase in turnover. Despite low European yields, sales exceeded expectations, especially in licensed tonnage in America and Asia, contributing to this growth. Financial challenges persist due to high yields in other regions and potential costs in politically unstable areas. The company also recovered funds from a cyberattack, closing that incident.
Possible potato shortage looms in Ireland as growers rush to late planting following bad weather
Irish shoppers may face potato shortages this summer due to delayed planting resulting from unusually wet weather, as reported by The Journal. This setback follows a poor harvest last year, further diminishing crop size. Teagasc experts predict supermarkets might resort to rationing potatoes. Additionally, with a sharp decline in Irish potato growers from 700 to 160 over the past decade, there’s a call for supermarkets to better support farmers and cease promotions of heavily discounted potatoes.
Value of Scottish potato industry more than just ‘small potatoes’
Potatoes, despite their versatile use in food and non-food sectors, have seen a dramatic 71% decline in UK’s fresh potato demand since the 1970s. According to a report by SRUC, Scotland remains more stable in potato production compared to the entire UK, accounting for significantly higher portions of seed potatoes, crucial due to its disease-free status. Scotland’s seed potato sector, highlighted for its economic importance, supports substantial employment and generates significant economic output.
Canadian potato landscape: Record stocks and regional disparities define the market
The United Potato Growers of Canada reported that potato holdings in April 2023 increased by 12.5% from the previous year, totaling 52,393,000 cwt. Stocks are higher than the five-year average, with significant amounts in western provinces, especially in processing. Quebec and Maritime regions saw lower stocks due to a rainy season. Processing sector stocks surged by 24% due to record production. Meanwhile, overall seed sector stocks are slightly down by 5.6%.
Europatat and coalition call for reevaluation of Plant Reproductive Material legislation due to concerns over disease spread
Europatat and key agricultural bodies expressed alarm over changes to the EU’s Plant Reproductive Material legislation up for a vote in April’s final week. The coalition opposes AGRI Committee’s amendments which may allow unchecked seed movement, raising the risk of disease and damaging sustainability efforts. They advocate for the European Parliament to maintain the Commission’s original balance to prevent a sector crisis.
Europatat unveils final program and speakers for 2024 Congress
Europatat is set to host its annual Congress in Brussels on 24 May 2024, focused on “European Potato Trade in 2030: a sector in transition”. The event will gather industry stakeholders to discuss the future environmental, economic, and social challenges of the potato sector. Renowned speakers, including legislators and experts, will provide insights and discuss solutions. Events include keynote speeches, panel discussions, and a presentation by the Platinum Sponsor, highlighting innovative strategies and the sector’s trajectory.
Soaring spuds: Prices at record highs in the UK as supply tightens and imports increase
The price of English white potatoes reached a record £570/MT with a 90% increase y-o-y. Maris Piper potatoes are at £610/MT, a 144% rise, yet trade is low. Prices could climb before 2024 as stocks are withheld. UK imports continue, priced £520-£600/MT. England has begun planting, but Scotland faces planting delays, potentially affecting the 2024 harvest. (Credit: Mintec)
Senators want more access to Japan for U.S. fresh potatoes
During Japanese Prime Minister Kishida’s visit to the U.S., a bipartisan group of senators urged President Biden to pressure Japan for U.S. fresh potato market access. National Potato Council’s CEO noted a heightened push over the past five years, despite Japan’s inaction. Senators saw the visit as a chance to intensify negotiations, a goal pursued for over three decades.
Irish potato farmers struggle with planting delays amidst wet spring, export slowdown in Europe
Persistent wet weather is causing serious planting delays for Irish potato farmers, warns the IFA. This has led to fears of supply shortages and rising consumer prices due to low harvest and strong demand. The situation is mirrored in the U.K., with similar hindrances in planting. European markets are tight, with imports of new-crop potatoes from Israel and Egypt increasing.
Jersey Royal potato farmers expected to struggle meeting demand this year
Recent wet weather has impacted Jersey Royal potato farmers, with projections of struggling to meet demand due to waterlogged fields and potential crop rot. The first harvest in April is jeopardized, and farmers like Paul Carre faced planting delays. Phil Le Maistre anticipates a 20% decrease in his export crop, hinting at broader UK produce challenges as well.
Potato farmers in Northern Ireland warn of potential shortages and price rises due to adverse weather
Weather woes in March have left Northern Ireland potato growers like William Gilmore facing a ‘write-off’ month, with potential shortages and price hikes looming. As growth lags by up to six weeks, farmers’ financial anxieties spike, and with similar struggles across Europe, the potato market faces a tough quarter ahead.
