Growing potatoes is never a smooth ride!

In season 2023, potato growers in North-western Europe were confronted with difficult weather conditions, a high disease pressure, and rising costs. NEPG estimates that there are around 11.000 ha of potatoes that are written off and a minimum of 650.000 t lost (in fields or after harvesting). Due to a lower supply of seed potatoes, the start of the new growing season 2024 already has its challenges.

Average production in 2023, with differences between countries

The total potato production was 22,7 million tonnes, 5,1 % up vs 2022 and nearly equal to the 5 years average. These figures include the estimated in-field losses in the NEPG countries. Potatoes were produced on a total area of 519.583 ha, 2,0 % up from 2022. Average yields in the NEPG zone were of 43,7 t/ha, 1,4 % higher than 2022.

Unlike in the rest of the NEPG zone, yields, hectarage and thus total production in the Netherlands were lower in 2023 compared to 2022. In Belgium, in spite of the dramatic losses endured by many farmers, total production is up by 18 % thanks to a 7,9 % area increase and overall better yields per ha.

Higher production costs, ever higher risks

Many growers are realising that growing potatoes is not only a costly business but also a risky one. With this in mind, the question arises, how much area should be planted under these market conditions? Better contract conditions do not compensate for higher production costs and bigger risks. On top of that, many fields have been damaged and compacted due to an extremely wet autumn.

Not enough certified seed and less free buy potatoes

The availability of seed potatoes is also worrisome, it is uncertain what volume will be available for the most popular varieties. They will be expensive despite concerns about seed quality (when chitted). Seed traders will likely choose their customers carefully. Meaning that the availability of seed will be linked to contracts. There will be much more chitted seed, particularly in medium sizes (45-55 mm) which is uncommon.

The consequences of more chitted seed on emergence, number of stems per ha and overall production could be a problem for potential yield.

Less seed and seed linked to a contract, also means there will be less free buy potatoes. On the other hand, the processing industry still has a big appetite for an increasing production. It will be challenging to contract sufficient acreage to sustain the need for potatoes. It is clear for growers that more risk premium will be needed than before.