Sales of domestic potatoes in the Canary Islands remain slow during the peak period of supply, affecting the early and mid-season crop harvested between spring and summer. Farmers report that current wholesale prices often fall below average production costs, delaying the release of local stocks.
According to producers and the Canary Islands Government's Department of Agriculture, millions of kilos of potatoes remain stored, some in cold storage and others in non-refrigerated facilities. Farmers fear the situation could worsen with the expected arrival of imported potatoes from the United Kingdom, which traditionally compete on price.
Wholesale prices have dropped from €1.20 (US$1.30) per kilo to €0.60–0.70 (US$0.65–0.76). Producers in Tenerife's northern midlands, where white potato cultivation is concentrated, confirm that large volumes of harvested potatoes remain unsold. They say current prices are not viable and do not cover production costs. Profits at levels of €1.00 (US$1.08) per kilo or slightly higher are only possible with support from POSEI aid, activated both by cultivated area and kilos sold.
Farmers are calling for a delay in UK potato imports to allow local production to be marketed first. However, uncertainty remains. If imports begin in early September instead of mid-September, as many expect, unsold stocks could face additional competition.
Demand is currently weak, a situation typical in August, and particularly in the second half of the month. Producers say this makes it unlikely that all local stocks will be sold before UK imports arrive. Should this occur, prices could remain under pressure, leading to losses for local growers.
For now, the outlook for marketing early and mid-season potatoes from storage remains unclear, with producers expressing concern over both low demand and the imminent threat of imports.
Source: ArgenPapa
