The global potato industry is undergoing a period of adjustment across key production and export regions, with developments ranging from market access negotiations to sharp price corrections in Europe.
In North America, a Mexican trade delegation visited Colorado as part of the 2025 Reverse Trade Mission organized by Potatoes USA. The delegation toured farms, packing facilities, and research centers to deepen cooperation on fresh potato imports. Mexico remains the leading export destination for U.S. potatoes, with shipments of russet varieties doubling since full market access was granted in 2022. Plans are underway to expand to yellow and purple varieties, reflecting continued diversification in Mexico's retail market.
France has expanded its potato acreage to over 197,000 hectares in 2025, a 10% rise from the previous year, driven by growing European industrial demand. National output reached 7.7 million tons in 2024, with 21% processed into fries and chips. The country maintains its position as the world's top exporter and Europe's second-largest producer after Germany.
In the United Kingdom, Lamb Weston won the 2025 National Restaurant, Pub & Bar Show Innovation Challenge for its Frenzy Fries product, underscoring continued development in value-added potato processing.
U.S. seed potato exports increased by 61% between July 2024 and March 2025, supported by resumed trials in Cuba and growing demand in Central America and Vietnam. The program focuses on supplying certified, disease-free seed to expand global partnerships, though challenges remain around phytosanitary compliance.
Meanwhile, potato prices in Northwest Europe have fallen sharply from about US$327 per ton in February 2025 to around US$55 per ton due to a 5% increase in planted area. European processors report a 1.8% drop in frozen fry sales in 2024, with expanding exports from China and India intensifying competition. Producers warn that rising acreage without corresponding processing capacity risks further price pressure.
Argentina's potato sector continues to modernize through investments by major processors, including McCain, Simplot, and Lamb Weston. In 2023–2024, the country planted 34,300 hectares, with 8% of production exported as processed products, mainly to Brazil.
In Japan, U.S. industry representatives met with USDA officials to advance fresh potato market access, potentially opening a US$150 million trade opportunity. Global oversupply and variable climate conditions have affected prices, while shortages persist in Australia.
The U.S. Department of Commerce reported that total U.S. potato exports from July 2024 to June 2025 reached 3.1 million tons, down 3.75% in volume and 0.8% in value to US$2.3 billion. Frozen exports rose 2%, fresh exports 1%, while dehydrated and chip exports declined by 14.4% and 13.4%, respectively. The top markets, Mexico, Japan, Canada, South Korea, Taiwan, and the Philippines, accounted for 77% of total shipments.
Source: Potato News Today
