In light of recent adverse weather conditions, Potatoes South Africa (PSA) has reassured consumers about the stability of potato supplies, as Lindi Botha reports for Farmers Weekly.
Despite challenges such as black frost in Limpopo and drought in the Free State during 2024, which led to record-high potato prices, PSA emphasizes that the nation’s diversified production across 16 regions ensures a continuous year-round supply.
Willie Jacobs, CEO of PSA, highlighted that while certain areas faced production setbacks, other regions compensated for these shortfalls. He cautioned against panic buying, noting that such reactions can artificially inflate prices, adversely affecting both consumers and farmers. Jacobs stated, “When panic takes hold, prices become inflated, and that hurts everyone – consumers and farmers alike.”
The organization also pointed out that the majority of South African potato farmers utilize irrigation systems, mitigating the impact of inconsistent rainfall. This irrigation capability contributes to the resilience of potato production, even during periods of extreme weather.
FP Coetzee, PSA’s manager of information services, identified key factors influencing potato supply and pricing, including weather conditions, diseases, profitability, and the management of resources like power, infrastructure, and water quality. South Africa plants on average 52 261ha to potatoes annually, supplying 250 million 10kg bags of potatoes. Around two million 10kg bags are delivered to the fresh produce markets weekly.
Source: Farmers Weekly. Read the full story here
Image: Credit Couleur from Pixabay
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