NEPG: Northwest European potato area expected to grow by 3.5-4%

Based upon grower surveys in the 5 main potato countries in Northwestern Europe, the NEPG (North-western European Potato Growers) calculates with an area growth for consumption potatoes between 3,5 and 4% more, compared either with last season or with the 5 years average.

Especially in France and Belgium the increase is the highest. The total consumption area will be almost 550.000 ha.

The NEPG already calculated with an increase, however, this is less than expected. For Great Britain the 5 year average area is used, as their first estimations are only published at the end of June. The NEPG stresses that it is always the yield per hectare which has the most impact on the total production.

Planting situation

Overall plantings are ahead of schedule. With exception of the heavy clay, the planting conditions are good, but soils are difficult to prepare and the soil structure is more susceptible to the drought than other years. About 60% has been planted by the middle of April in the NEPG countries. It is obvious that it is still too early to make an estimation about the total crop 2014. The lack of rain in the most production regions is now obvious.

More contracts

For coming season more contracts have been signed than the year before, despite of lower prices compared to last season. According to the NEPG there is an trend with more growers signing contracts, mainly with potato processors. The price paid for contracted tonnage and additional “free buy” tonnage remains a contentious issue.