Dramatic increase in US Frozen Potato Exports to USPB Target Markets

United States exports of frozen potato products to all markets grew 11% by volume and 16% by value for the first quarter (July-September) of MY2012/13.

However, the volume of exports to the United States Potato Board (USPB) target markets increased 18%, while declining 7% to the rest of the world. Notable increases were seen in the Philippines 76%, Indonesia 37%, Japan 23%, Mexico 43%, South Korea 50% and Malaysia 26%. US market share increased in the Philippines from 53% to 79%, in Japan from 75% to 79% and in Malaysia from 55% to 57%.

It is important to note exports during this period were greatly impacted by prices established from the 2011 harvest when the EU and other suppliers had an abundance of product, but the US was tight on product and high on price. However, in many of the USPB target markets where the USPB programs, including the “Why Buy US” program, were being implemented, overall demand increased, and the US was able to increase exports and maintain or expand market share.

Frozen potatoes account for over 50% of total US potato exports.

Current United States Potato Board Target Markets are: Japan, China, Mexico, South Korea, Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, the Dominican Republic, Costa Rica, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua.

Source: United States Potato Board (USPB)