The Expana Benchmark Price (EBP) for Dutch processing potatoes is currently €180 per metric ton (MT), reflecting a 28% decline month-on-month (m-o-m) and a 51.4% decrease year-on-year (y-o-y). Belgian Fontane potatoes are priced at €130/MT, showing a 25.7% drop m-o-m and a 62.8% fall y-o-y. The market is described as quiet, with limited demand leading to few trades and decreasing prices. Most EU potato processors are fulfilling needs through contracts, sourcing minimal quantities from the free-buy market. High availability results in minimal buyer competition.
Planting for the 2025 crop is progressing across the EU. Dry weather in March and April has facilitated rapid planting. As of April 23, sources indicate that approximately half of the crop is planted in Belgium and Germany, while two-thirds are planted in the Netherlands and France. This early planting start exerts downward pressure on prices, with expectations of an earlier harvest. However, stakeholders acknowledge that conditions are subject to change, and a drought could impact final yields.
Market sentiment remains bearish for the 2024/25 marketing year, with high availability and substantial contracted volumes by processors influencing the outlook. Weather conditions remain a key variable to monitor.
Source: Mintec/Expana