The Irish Farmers Association (IFA) says in its weekly report that retail demand is on the rise in Ireland as we approach the Christmas peak period. The food service sector continues to trade this week, which is also welcome.
Kerr’s Pinks are now in short supply which has seen the market price strengthen for this variety. Growers in Donegal are continuing to harvest when ground conditions allow. Again, the main focus this week remains around Brexit talks as the deadline is getting ever closer.
Due to the excessive import of UK potatoes retailers need to ensure UK produce is not been mislabelled as Irish. IFA are currently undertaking their own investigations on this issue and have requested DAFM and Bord Bia to do likewise.
In the UK anecdotal reports of storage issues emerged this week, posing further concern for potatoes that were lifted wet quite early on. Exports continue at large volumes in preparation for reduced access to markets come 1 January 2021.
Across Europe the processing market is quiet, with some factories closing on alternative weeks and some factories are closing for the Christmas break which is unheard of. The fresh markets remain buoyant, with best washing quality samples firm and some signs that prices could improve for best quality.
Source: IFA
Photo: The Irish Times
