NEPG (North-Western European Potato Growers) says it is unsure of the current potato situation and does not expect major changes in the demand side of the market in the coming weeks. NEPG says in a press release that due to the pandemic, there is hardly any demand for potatoes on the open market from the processing industry, and prices are on an extremely low level.
Another large challenge is the actual sprouting threat reported by growers in all the 5 leading potato producing countries. This could change the supply-situation in the coming months.
Fewer processing contracts
Due to the pandemic, the processing industry works at 80 to 90 % of their normal capacity – which will remain until the European Horeca will re-open again. At the start of 2021, mainland growers and processors will negotiate contracts for the 2021/22 season, and it is expected that fewer contracts will be signed. The NEPG on the continent upgrades their earlier area advice of 15 % less, towards a smaller desired potato area of 15
