1. Weekly News

Peru

Peru’s Potato Production Rises 9% YoY in Jan-25

Peru’s potato production reached 290,914 metric tons (mt) in Jan-25, marking a 9% year-on-year (YoY) increase, driven by favorable weather conditions. Huánuco led national production, increasing potato production by 58.5%. Followed by Ayacucho with 109.2%, Cusco with 5.9%, and Arequipa with 1.6%, which accounted for 63.3% of total national output. Additional gains were seen in Amazonas, Ica, Ancash, and Moquegua, while production declined in Apurímac, Piura, La Libertad, Lima, and Cajamarca.

Peru Aims to Boost Fresh Potato Exports to Panama

Peru is working to enhance fresh potato exports to Panamá, alongside fresh onions and other agricultural products. In a recent meeting, the National Agrarian Health Service's (Senasa) head, and Panama's ambassador discussed strategies to facilitate market access. Senasa emphasized that this initiative could create new opportunities for small producers, helping them expand their markets and improve competitiveness.

Russia

Russia Faces Potato Storage Challenges with Limited Capacity and Costly Modernization

Russia produces 13 to 14 million metric tons (mmt) of potatoes annually, but its storage capacity remains limited to 8 to 9 mmt. Storage facility modernization is costly and complicated due to difficulties in accessing foreign equipment. Despite support from the Ministry of Agriculture (Minselkhoz), upgrading old Soviet-era storage and implementing high-tech solutions remain critical to extending storage periods. In some regions, advanced facilities allow for long-term storage, reducing import dependency, though the initial investment remains high.

South Korea

South Korea Approves US Genetically Modified Potatoes

The Rural Development Administration (RDA) recently approved the United States (US) genetically modified (LMO) potato, SPS-Y9, as suitable for crop cultivation in South Korea, reigniting debates over the safety and impact of LMOs. A genetically modified (LMO) potato is engineered to enhance pest resistance, reduce bruising, and improve storage, offering greater efficiency and durability in production and supply chains. While supporters highlight the lack of proven harm over 30 years since LMOs were introduced and rigorous screening processes, opponents argue potential ecosystem disruptions and risks to domestic farmers. South Korea imports nearly 10 mmt of LMOs for food and agriculture annually, with regulatory assessments required for approval. Critics fear the decision may set a precedent for further LMO imports, citing past issues with unapproved releases.

South Korea and Pakistan Launch KOPIA Disease-Free Seed Potato Complex to Boost Production

South Korea’s RDA and Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) have completed the Korea Program on International Agriculture's (KOPIA) Disease-Free Seed Potato Complex, a 3.2-hectare (ha) facility aimed at boosting Pakistan's seed potato production. Using hydroponic technology, productivity has increased six-fold. By 2025, the complex will produce 1,200 mt of seed potatoes, with plans to meet 30% of Pakistan’s demand by 2028. The Pakistani Prime Minister called the initiative a major milestone for agricultural development, highlighting strengthened bilateral cooperation in food security.

Ukraine

Ukraine’s Potato Prices Drop 12% WoW Amid Weak Demand and Oversupply

Potato prices in Ukraine have fallen 12% week-on-week (WoW) due to weak demand and an oversupply of deteriorating stocks amid warmer weather. Farmers are lowering prices to clear inventory ahead of the next planting season, with current prices ranging from USD 0.39 to 0.63 per kilogram (UAH 16 to 26/kg). Despite the decline, potatoes remain 23% more expensive YoY, though analysts predict further price fluctuations before the season ends.

2. Weekly Pricing

Weekly Potato Pricing Important Exporters (USD/kg)

Yearly Change in Potato Pricing Important Exporters (W13 2024 to W13 2025) 

France

France's potato prices declined to USD 0.38/kg in W13, marking a 5% WoW and 17.39% YoY decrease. However, this price level is underpinned by tighter supply dynamics, with 2024 storage volumes down to 7.9 mmt from 8.3 mmt in 2023. Persistent rainfall in key regions such as Hauts-de-France and Normandy further constrained availability by delaying logistics and restricting fresh supply in early 2025. While prices have temporarily softened, continued strong demand from processors and export markets—particularly Spain and Italy—may support a rebound. If supply remains limited and weather-related disruptions persist, upward pressure on prices is likely in the coming months.

Pakistan

In W13, Pakistan's potato prices remained stable at USD 0.17/kg for the third consecutive week, showing a 5.56% decrease both month-on-month (MoM) and YoY. This stability can be attributed to the ongoing harvest in Punjab, the country’s primary potato-producing region, which has increased supply and exerted downward pressure on prices. The expansion of acreage and improved yields have bolstered market availability, while lower production costs, driven by stable prices for fertilizers and fuel, have further supported the price stability. Additionally, weaker export demand and improved domestic distribution have ensured that the market remains well-supplied, preventing any significant price hikes.

Egypt

Egypt's potato prices have decreased to USD 0.11/kg in W13, marking an 8.33% weekly and 54.17% yearly drop. Despite strong demand, particularly in export markets, prices continue to fall due to increased supply and expanded cultivation areas. The country's potato exports have grown significantly, with a 10 to 15% YoY increase expected in 2025. In particular, exports to Russia have surged, aided by reduced customs duties aimed at addressing food price inflation. New markets, such as Tajikistan and the Balkans, and a resurgence in traditional markets like Spain and the Gulf countries, have further driven demand.

However, production costs have doubled this year, and while strong export demand persists, prices remain low—averaging USD 250 to 320/mt free-on-board (FOB), reflecting a 30 to 40% YoY drop compared to the previous year. The increased supply and expansion of cultivated areas in Egypt have helped meet growing demand but put downward pressure on prices.

3. Actionable Recommendations

Diversify Export Markets for Peru’s Potatoes

As Peru expands fresh potato exports to Panamá, producers should also explore additional markets in Central America, the Caribbean, and Asia to minimize dependence on a single export destination. Establishing trade agreements and enhancing market access through improved logistics and promotional campaigns will help small producers increase their competitiveness and reach new customers.

Modernize Potato Storage Facilities in Russia

Given Russia’s limited storage capacity, modernizing storage infrastructure should be prioritized to extend the shelf life of potatoes and reduce import dependency. Partnerships with foreign equipment providers and government incentives can help overcome the high costs associated with upgrading old Soviet-era facilities, ensuring long-term storage capabilities.

Adopt Advanced Storage and Processing Solutions in France and Egypt

To mitigate price fluctuations and manage oversupply, stakeholders in France and Egypt should invest in advanced cold storage systems and processing facilities. This will help stabilize supply throughout the year, meet growing export demand, and reduce the impact of seasonal disruptions, while value-added processing options can provide additional revenue streams for producers.

Sources: Tridge, YNA, AgroPeru, Sinor, Agricultural News Agency, Fresh Plaza