No potato shortage in South Africa

In South Africa, the northern regions of Limpopo were affected by frost last winter. Following this, reports circulated of total crop loss and a severe shortage of potatoes.

 

Potatoes South Africa denied these reports, which had raised concerns about the availability of potatoes in the country. There is no shortage of potatoes.

 

Willie Jacobs, Managing Director of Potatoes SA, said that after a survey of members based in Limpopo, the frost occurred at a time when potatoes were at different stages of growth. No total crop loss.

 

Potatoes SA estimates that around 3,674 hectares were affected in Limpopo, which is likely to result in a 3% reduction in the national potato supply compared with the 5-year average.