Concerns of the potato sector in Spain

In Spain, the potato season has started with concern about the growing volume of purchases of products from Egypt and the decline in consumption. In just four years, per capita consumption has fallen from 20 kg to 18 kg. All this is happening in a context where producers are warning of a slight decrease in production.

 

Experts point out that there is a shortage of seed potatoes, mainly due to the effects of climate and deteriorating plant health.

 

Extreme weather, especially in countries such as Denmark, France and the Netherlands, has led to a reduction in production. In addition, many farmers are opting for potatoes destined for industry due to weather complications and increased consumption of frozen potatoes.

 

In terms of harvest, a bumper season is expected in Seville, with record estimates thanks to recent rains. However, there are concerns about increased imports of Egyptian potatoes, which could affect the local market.

 

Household potato consumption shows a decline of 11.7% in the last five years. The latest data from the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAPA) indicates that in 2019 per capita consumption was 20.2 kilos and as of November 2023, the amount decreased to 18.9 kilos.

 

This has led to an increase in frozen potato consumption, reflecting a shift in consumption trends towards more accessible products. 

 

In 2019, frozen potato consumption in Spanish households was 0.9 kilos per capita, in 2021 1.10 and 1.13 in 2023, according to MAPA.

 

 

 

fuente: efeagro.com