In October 2024, Potatoes USA organized a Reverse Trade Mission (RTM) with support from Market Access Program (MAP) funding, focusing on the global foodservice and retail sectors. The RTM included chefs, importers, and buyers from Central America, China, the Gulf Cooperation Council, Japan, Mexico, the Philippines, South Korea, Taiwan, and Vietnam, who visited Oregon and Washington.
Participants toured farms, research centers, processing plants, and packing facilities to observe supply chain operations. The program also included technical training, culinary demonstrations, and a session titled "Why Buy U.S. Potatoes," aimed at highlighting retail and foodservice applications.
© Potatoes USA
The RTM produced measurable results across markets. In China, importer-distributor Angliss Hunan reported a 15 percent sales increase after securing new restaurant accounts, while Beijing Xianglong Taida launched an e-commerce campaign that boosted retail sales by 182 percent. In Southeast Asia, Vietnamese importers expanded U.S. potato volumes by 20 percent and secured new listings in Aeon and MM Mega retail chains. In Taiwan, imports rose 3 percent, including the first shipment of white fingerling potatoes.
In South Korea, the RTM contributed to new applications in school lunch programs and supported the reintroduction of U.S. fresh potatoes to retail shelves after a four-year absence. In Mexico, connections made during the RTM enabled U.S. potatoes to enter 20,000 Oxxo convenience stores, generating over US$100,000 in monthly sales.
According to Potatoes USA, the RTM helped expand product portfolios, strengthen commercial ties, and improve buyer confidence in U.S. potatoes. The organization continues to include in-person trade missions as part of its global export strategy.
For more information:
Potatoes USA
Tel: +1 303 369 7783
Email: [email protected]
www.potatoesusa.com
