Kam Quarles, CEO of the National Potato Council, indicates a positive outlook on discussions between the U.S. and Japan concerning U.S. potato exports. The industry has long sought access for fresh potatoes in the Japanese market, eyeing an opportunity estimated at $150 million annually for fresh tablestock potatoes.
Quarles highlighted how politics pose as non-tariff trade barriers with Japan. Officials from both nations convened last Friday and plan to reconvene on May 30, reflecting potential progress. "Obviously, the tariff situation overall has generated a lot of volatility, chaos, and questions, but one thing it's also generated is some leverage," Quarles mentioned.
Meanwhile, as the United States engages with other nations such as Vietnam and Thailand, the potato industry is advocating for reinstating tariff advantages previously seen under the Trans-Pacific Partnership.
Source: Brownfield
