“The early season for potatoes can be compared to previous years, broadly speaking. There are some differences. For example, prices are slightly higher, and Cyprus started later. They started planting later due to the late arrival of the seed potatoes and the cold winter. There’s currently some delay because of rain. Because of the volcanic clay soil, harvesting is difficult when it rains,” says Michel Binst from Primimport.
The potato import season for Primimport always starts with the winter crop before Christmas. “The spring crop arrived in the country three weeks ago. We currently have to work with smaller volumes from Cyprus, so there will be some scarcity for a while. We have to share a little more now. It is expected that supply will improve within a few days.” Michel indicates that the area increased slightly in Cyprus. “Good yields are expected for the remainder of the season. Regarding price, we are at the same starting level each year. Of course, this development depends on various factors. The weather here and there and supply from other origins are of great influence.”
Israel
Primimport also has potatoes from Israel. “We have plenty of supply from that country. We don’t have any problems delivering the programmes.” Can Israel be a replacement when there are shortages from Cyprus? “Not on the fresh market in Brussels. They almost exclusively buy from Cyprus. And we only receive wholesale packs of 1,350 kilograms from Israel. These are only later packed in small packaging. Besides, Israeli product is completely different.”
Spain will arrive in May
The trader feels positive about the coming period. “We are facing a good season with good prices, as of right now. Potatoes are fairly expensive right now, but this might change when Spain starts. Supply from this country will start mid-May. The high prices but last a while longer, because there’s not much ‘old’ harvest of good quality left in Belgium.”
Varieties for Belgium
According to him, Nicola and Charlotte are two very important varieties in Belgium. “Practically every retailer has these two available year-round. There are, of course, other varieties as well. Supermarkets often try other varieties, but these two are permanent references.” For more information:
Michel Binst
Importcentrum Brussels
Magazijn 38
T +32 (0)22 158 805
F +32 (0)22 456 850