With the start of the new potato season in various parts of Europe, the potato market is currently in a transitional phase, according to Jurgen Duthoo of Warnez. "It's a bit of a phase where old and new harvests overlap, but we still have enough quality stock from the 2024 harvest, so for now we're postponing imports," explains the trader from the Tielt-based company.
"We're still doing well with the old harvest," Jurgen continues. "There have been some price corrections in recent weeks. This is partly a response to the adjustments made in the industrial market, which have also pushed up prices for consumption potatoes. Combined with higher free stock availability on the market, this means we can still enjoy decent trade compared to the more expensive early potatoes."
However, he notes that exports are gradually tapering off. "We still see some demand, as certain countries lack sufficient quantities or the right calibres in their own crops. Still, it's very volatile. One week, everyone wants the old crop; the next, there are plenty of local, new potatoes, and imports to those countries come to a halt. As long as the price difference between old and new remains relatively large, we respond to customer preference. Some switch quickly to the new crop, while others continue with the old as long as the price–quality ratio is favourable. But exports are definitely winding down. Maybe a few stray shipments to Eastern Europe will go out, but Southern Europe has largely switched to local supply."
New crop needs some rain
For now, the company is optimistic about Belgium's new harvest, but some rainfall would be welcome. "Everything was planted nicely and smoothly. Conditions were very good, but we are noticing it's drier than it should be. That's definitely something to monitor. Rain was forecast, but it always turns out to be less than expected. The data still shows significantly drier-than-average conditions."
"It remains to be seen what the impact will be. It's too early to say. Perhaps the early potatoes, which are mainly destined for industry, will end up with smaller calibres. But we'll have to wait and see. The bottom line is that some more rain would be beneficial. At the moment, there are more uncertainties than certainties in the potato market anyway."
For more information:
Jurgen Duthoo
Warnez
Marialoopsesteenweg 2L
B-8700 - Tielt - Belgium
Tel: +32 051 400812
[email protected]
www.warnezpotatoes.be