In the Netherlands, the current price level is considerably hindering smooth potato sales. "The market is rather sluggish, both for exports and local sales," says Kees Schouten of Altena Potatoes.
"Almost no potatoes are being shipped to Africa, either. We're mainly focusing on exporting Agria potatoes to Spain and France and catering to our domestic clientele. That keeps us busy, but we're not really getting anywhere."
"For many countries, our prices are too high. You can't find quality potatoes for under €0.35, and Agria prices even top €0.40," says Kees. "As long as prices remain at this level, I don't foresee significant sales volumes. We're priced a few cents above French potatoes, so our Eastern European customers turn there first."
"However, finding good quality is challenging. Fry potato sales seem to be doing fairly well, but the industry isn't buying much either. They, too, are hesitant, given these prices. Even the waxy potatoes are too expensive for export. We're gearing up for the new import season. Potatoes are growing quite well in Malta, and that season should start in March. Plus, more Moroccan potatoes will probably begin arriving next week," Kees concludes.
Potato cultivation in Malta
For more information:
Kees Schouten
Altena Potatoes
15 Veensesteeg
4264 KG, Veen, NL
Tel: +31 (0) 416 392 565
Mob: +31 (0) 653 127 488
kees@altena-bv.nl
www.altenapotatoes.com