Gain Report: Potato and Frozen Potato Products in China 2007

China fresh potato production in MY07/08 is forecast at 75.6 million tons, up 5 percent from the previous year as a result of growing consumer demand. Average fresh potato prices have risen 15 percent annually over the previous three years. Processed potato products are forecast to rise up to 10 percent in the coming years due to western style and fast food outlet expansion. MY06/07 frozen French fry consumption is estimated to rise by 10 percent over the previous year and is forecast to rise another 15 percent in MY07/08. Imported frozen french fries in MY06/07 is estimated at 55,000 tons, unchanged from the previous year. Frozen french fry production is estimated to represent 53 percent of domestic consumption in MY06/07,while only accounting for 46 percent in MY05/06.