Switzerland authorizes additional import of 5,000 tonnes of potatoes

In Switzerland, the unfavorable weather conditions in spring combined with the increase in consumption at home caused a severe drop in stocks. FOAG (Federal Office for Agriculture) has authorized the import of an additional 5,000 tonnes of table potatoes. This increase is temporary.

 

At the request of Swisspatat, the potato industry association OFAG (Federal Office for Agriculture) authorized the additional import of 5,000 tonnes of table potatoes. This increase is temporary and valid from July 1 to 31, 2021.

 

The combination of several difficulties hit the Swiss potato sector. Bad weather conditions in April and May are delaying the harvest by 2-3 weeks. The closures of the HoReCa sector led to an increase in household demand for table potatoes. Sales were well above the levels of previous years, especially with + 30% recorded in April compared to the same month of the previous year. In addition, due to the effects of the summer heat of 2020, the condition and shelf life of the potatoes has been reduced.