Drought turns potato market upside down

After a long, difficult period, sentiment in the potato market has shifted completely. The drought is driving growing demand for both old-crop and new-crop potatoes. Three weeks ago, old-crop Agria potatoes could still be picked up for free. They are now fetching 25 to 30 cents. The drought is also causing major problems outside the Netherlands. Belgium, France, Germany, Spain, and the United Kingdom are particularly affected. As a result, Veiling Sint-Annaland is currently shipping large volumes in bulk to Belgium.

Tholen can continue irrigating

According to Edward van den Eijnden, supplies of Thoolse Primeur potatoes are strong. He is commercial manager at Veiling Sint-Annaland. Between 30 and 45 metric tons arrive on each auction day.

Growers on Tholen have access to sufficient fresh water. This means they are allowed and able to continue irrigating their potatoes. Restrictions are emerging elsewhere in the Netherlands. According to Van den Eijnden, the Alvantho potatoes are of very good quality.

Prices continue to rise

Price trends differ significantly from other seasons. Early potatoes normally enter the market at high prices. Prices then usually decline steadily. This season, however, prices are rising for almost all varieties. This applies to both red- and yellow-skinned potatoes. 

Doré market turns around completely

Last year, the market for Doré potatoes looked very different. “Last year, they were almost impossible to sell. Now they are sold out and in short supply.” This is a positive situation for the affiliated growers. Veiling Sint-Annaland has now passed the seasonal peak. The auction expects to end the season by early September at the latest.

Alvantho.nl