Potato prices soar in Brazil after heavy rains flood key farming regions

Heavy rains in January and February 2025 caused serious problems for potato farmers in Brazil, especially in the South, Mato Grosso, and Mato Grosso do Sul. Flooding made it difficult or even impossible to harvest crops, reducing the supply of potatoes in local markets.

As a result, prices for a 25kg bag of special agate potatoes increased across several regions. In Paraná (PR), the average price is R$ 60.00 (USD 12), with Guarapuava, a key production area, facing shortages.

Rio Grande do Sul (RS) saw prices rise to R$ 58.00 (USD 11.60), while Santa Catarina (SC) reported an average of R$ 59.50 (USD 11.90) per bag, with the Água Doce area being hit hard by rainfall.

In Mato Grosso (MT), the price reached R$ 62.00 (USD 12.40), and in Mato Grosso do Sul (MS), prices climbed to R$ 61.50 (USD 12.30), with Campo Grande also affected. Excess water not only slowed harvesting but also increased the risk of diseases and crop rot, lowering potato quality.

Experts predict prices will stay high until the winter harvest begins in June, though changing weather could cause more problems. Farmers are encouraged to invest in better water management and climate-resistant techniques to reduce future losses. Organizations like Cepea continue to monitor the market and provide updates to help farmers and consumers stay informed.

source: conectaagrobrasil.com.br

photo: portal.fgv.br